This tax season, DIVERSEcity’s free Annual Income Tax Clinic once again made a meaningful difference for people across the community.
With the support of dedicated volunteers trained by Canada Revenue Agency, the program helped 1,224 individuals and families complete and file their income taxes free of charge — ensuring low-income community members could access important benefits, credits and financial supports during a time of rising costs and economic uncertainty.
The annual tax clinic is part of DIVERSEcity’s ongoing commitment to supporting vulnerable populations and community members who may face barriers to accessing tax services. Working with our partner Surrey Libraries, the clinic held appointments between March 9 and April 29 across three locations in Surrey.
“This year, with the tremendous support of our frontline staff, volunteers, clients and community partners, we filed a record-high 1,224 tax returns across three locations,” says Lin Lin, Manager, Community & Volunteer Programs. “The impact of this program goes far beyond helping people file their taxes and access benefits and credits. It’s about improving financial stability, reducing barriers and strengthening community connections. This holistic approach is what makes the program so meaningful and impactful for our community.”
Programs like the Annual Income Tax Clinic play an important role in helping people file their taxes correctly and, as a result, access government benefits that support financial stability and wellbeing. For many individuals and families, free tax clinics can also be a critical connection point to other community resources and services.
DIVERSEcity thanks all volunteers, staff and community partners who helped make this year’s clinic a success and looks forward to continuing this important work in the future.
To learn more about this service to utilize for tax season next year, please visit: Annual Income Tax Clinic – DIVERSEcity Community Resources Society