DC Commission on Poverty

The DC Commission on Poverty is charged with advising the Mayor and the DC Council on policies and programs that reduce poverty and promote economic opportunity across the District. The Commission brings together leaders from government and those with lived experience as well as policy expertise to identify systemic barriers and recommend effective, evidence-based solutions.

 

One of the Commission’s core responsibilities is to support the development and oversight of a comprehensive poverty reduction plan for the District. The Commission’s first plan sets a goal of reducing poverty in DC by 50% by the year 2026. Every five years, the Commission will set new benchmarks to continue advancing progress. 

 

The Commission is composed of 19 members appointed by the Mayor, including 11-at-large representatives and 8 ward representatives with lived experience. The Commission also includes 8 ex-officio members from key District government agencies. Members bring a range of perspectives and expertise across issues like housing, workforce development, education, and health. 

 

For more information about the Commission’s legislative requirements, visit the DC Council website. 

DC Poverty Commission Bylaws
The Commission operates under formal bylaws that outline its structure, responsibilities, and procedures. These bylaws govern membership, meeting protocols, voting processes, and other operational matters, ensuring transparency, accountability, and alignment with the Commission’s mission. A full copy of the bylaws is available HERE. 
 
Application for Membership
If you are interested in applying to join the Commission, please visit the application page. Please note that applicants must be DC residents.

 

Public Engagement
The Commission holds regular public meetings to discuss its work and listening sessions to gather input from the community and advance recommendations that address poverty in the District. These meetings are open to the public in accordance with the DC Open Meetings Act and provide an opportunity for residents to engage with the Commission’s work. 

 

Upcoming dates are listed below.
•    Public Meeting: June 24, 2025 at 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM (completed)
•    Public Meeting: July 22, 2025 at 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM (completed)

 

Poverty Commission Staff
Ty Grooms, Senior Policy Advisor to the Director of the Department of Employment Services, serves as the agency liaison to the Commission. In this capacity, he supports the Commission’s administration, strategic planning, policy development, and interagency coordination. 

 

The following individuals currently serve on the Commission: 

Ms. Debra Byrd, Member At-Large
Ms. Corinne Cannon, Member At-Large
Dr.  Marla Dean, Member At-Large, Chair
Ms. Nechama Masliansky, Member At-Large
Ms. LaToya Matthews, Member At-Large
Mr. Elijah Moses, Member At-Large, Vice Chair

Ms. Patricia Stamper, Member At-Large
Ms. Rachael Stephens, Member At-Large
Mr.  Robert Warren, Member At-Large
Ms. Khadijah Williams, Member At-Large
Mr. Ibrahim Sharafdeen, Non-Voting Ex-Officio Member (CFSA)
Ms. Joan Williams, Non-Voting Ex-Officio Member (DACL)
Ms. Paige Hoffman, Non-Voting Ex Officio Member (DCPS)
Mr. Curtis Smith, Non-Voting Ex Officio Member (DHS)
Ms. Sara Beckwith, Non-Voting Ex Officio Member (DOH)