Here you will find a description of the different programs at WRI and contacts for each program. Read how media covers WRI and the work we do. Learn more about the graduates of our Community Leadership Seminar. Download WRI materials and flyers; Fair Hearing and pro se packets; and link to other organizations.   Welfare Rights Initiative was developed at the Hunter College Center for the Study of Family Policy to address three problematic aspects of the welfare reform debates: the absent voice of welfare claimants; the negative stereotypes that dominate decision-making, and the need for reforms that are realistic and socially constructive.   WRI's educational, legal, social service and advocacy programs help students to become informed about local, state and federal anti-poverty, social welfare and higher education policies; provide students with the opportunity to participate in organizing and leadership development activities; and facilitate their interaction with faculty, community advocates, activists, service providers and policy-makers.   In all of its activities, WRI seeks to inject the voices of students (especially those with firsthand experience of poverty) into relevant program and policy-making processes. WRI Policy Updates!