The Poverty Institute is a respected authority on the issues impacting the economic vitality of both our residents and our state.  The Institute is the only organization in Rhode Island that analyzes tax and budget policies on behalf of low-income populations.  It is a member of the nationwide State Fiscal Analysis Initiative, a network of state organizations coordinated by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities.

The Poverty Institute works closely with several statewide coalitions, committees, and community groups in an effort to make lasting change.  These partnerships have helped improve economic security and opportunities for low-income people in the state.

The Institute is housed at the Rhode Island College School of Social Work.  The Institute receives no government funding.  Financial support comes from foundations, corporations, and individuals who care about social change and economic justice.

The Poverty Institute was founded in 1999 by Linda Katz and the late Nancy Gewirtz (photo).

THE POVERTY INSTITUTE MISSION:
The Poverty Institute works to promote economic security for low- and moderate-income Rhode Islanders and equitable tax and budget policies through policy analysis, education and advocacy.

THE POVERTY INSTITUTE VISION STATEMENT: The Poverty Institute works towards the vision that...
• Rhode Island has a vibrant economy with a skilled workforce that attracts and retains jobs that enable Rhode Islanders to support themselves and their families. 
• There is a shared responsibility for ensuring that all Rhode Islanders, especially low-wage workers and those who cannot work, are able to meet their basic needs. 
• Rhode Island has an effective, efficient, and well-funded public sector that provides vital public services to its residents. 
• Rhode Island has an equitable and adequate tax structure.  

THE POVERTY INSTITUTE 2009 ANNUAL REPORT
The Poverty Institute is celebrating its 10th anniversary! We could not have reached this important milestone without the generous support of our individual donors, philanthropic partners and colleagues in the community. Together, we have worked hard to improve the economic well-being of our low- and modest-income neighbors. Our 2009 Annual Report features comments from our colleagues, a timeline of important accomplishments, an overview of our revenue and expenses, and a list of our loyal donors.
Read our 2009 Annual Report (Interactive Version)
(note: a new window will appear with the report, click the corners of the report to flip the pages)
2009 Annual Report (PDF Version)

POVERTY INSTITUTE CASE STATEMENT
POVERTY INSTITUTE'S ANNUAL REPORT 2008

  All documents are in downloadable PDF format

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