Thanks to our volunteers, we are celebrating the 12th anniversary of VITA: the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program. In partnership with United Way of Tarrant County and the City of Fort Worth, GRACE provided close to 300 families with tax assistance, financial coaching, and more than $550,000in tax refunds in 2021. Without volunteers, this would not have been possible.
On Monday, VITA volunteers will once again take residence at the GRACE main offices, and will be assisting taxpayers through April 29th.
The results of this effort are astounding. In the eleven years GRACE has been a VITA location, over $2,500,000 has been refunded to local families.
Last year, families averaged nearly $1,000 in additional refunds in Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credits alone. These credits are often left unclaimed or given a fraction of the return with a costly tax service.
For those on limited budgets or fixed incomes, a well-earned refund from the Internal Revenue Service has a significant budget impact, and creates a ripple effect that is far reaching, including the intangible support given during tax season for financial stewardship awareness, job coaching, and continued education resources to increase each family’s earning potential.
“The value of this service could not be overstated,” said Stacy Pacholick, GRACE Chief Program Officer. “Not only are refunds rightfully given back to the people who paid them, the teachable moments are boundless.”
VITA is open to all qualifying families with household incomes of $60,000 or less for the 2021 calendar year. In partnership with United Way of Tarrant County, the service is provided free with no out-of-pocket costs for tax preparations.
For the flexibility, convenience and safety of volunteers and families, GRACE will once again be set up as a “curb-side drop off” site allowing individuals to drop off information, have their returns prepared and then come back to pick up the returns without having to leave their vehicles. Those interested in this service can visit FortWorthTexas.gov/vita to set up an appointment time or call 682-428-2939..
If you would like to consider volunteering, please contact Ryan Jackson, GRACE Volunteer Manager at rjackson@GRACEGrapevine.org, or visit this website for more information. Online training is available, and every tax return is reviewed by at least two tax preparers before being submitted, but please don’t hesitate to call and ask for more information. GRACE NEEDS YOU!
