The Social Policy Lab conducts applied policy research on social welfare programs and policies, with a strong focus on means-tested, human service, and income support policies. By applying a social equity framework and utilizing a variety of research methods, we investigate the implementation and outcomes of public programs and services designed to reduce family poverty and economic and social inequities. The underlying goal of our research projects is two-fold: 1) to identify what aspects of social welfare programs and policies work best for whom and under what circumstances, and 2) offer actionable recommendations to local, state, and national agencies – recommendations that aim to improve services and ultimately the lives of families struggling with poverty.
Recent Publications
Providing child care subsidies for low-income parents:
Lessons from the literature
Recent research studies from across the U.S. have shown: Due to the high cost of child care, low-income families often face challenges in navigating difficult options – spending a significant portion of their income on child care…
An Equity Analysis of Applying for Welfare: TANF Application and Denial Reasons by Household and County Characteristics
The number of families receiving public cash assistance has decreased since welfare reform and the establishment of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) in 1996, with only a few short-lived increases…
Nonprofit Perspectives on Supporting Families Applying to Public Cash Assistance in New Jersey
Nonprofits complementary to public sector: Nonprofit organizations reported their role as complementary to public assistance programs in supporting low-income families seeking TANF benefits…
All publications