Introduction
This portfolio of research describes projects sponsored by the Division of Economic Independence in Fiscal Year (FY) 2024. The report is structured to align with the framework established in the Welfare and Family Self-Sufficiency Learning Agenda (WFSSLA), a comprehensive learning agenda jointly developed by the Division and the Office of Family Assistance to guide the development and execution of activities to learn how Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and other human services can best support the self-sufficiency and economic well-being of children and families with low incomes.
Purpose
This document provides detailed summaries of the status of welfare and family self-sufficiency research projects in FY 2024, along with brief overviews of past projects, and highlights select findings and publications released in FY 2024.
The studies in this report are organized to align with the WFSSLA Framework:
- TANF Policy, Funding, and Administration
- Capacity Building within Human Services Programs
- Strategies for Advancing Positive Participant Outcomes — Human Capital Development
- Strategies for Advancing Positive Participant Outcomes — Employment Attainment and Retention
- Strategies for Advancing Positive Participant Outcomes — Social Services Delivery Systems
- Strategies for Advancing Positive Participant Outcomes — Social Context and Environment
- Knowledge Building and Communication
The report also describes the Division’s efforts to disseminate rigorous research on welfare and family self-sufficiency topics.
Citation
Portfolio of Research in Welfare and Family Self-Sufficiency—FY 2024, OPRE Report 2025-085, Washington, DC: Office of Planning, Research, and Evaluation, Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.