2. VITA brings
back billions of dollars to communities across the country. VITA’s stellar volunteer preparers help hardworking Americans to access the
credits they’ve earned, like the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit.
These refundable credits allow recipients to become financially stable by
expanding their income enough to pay for rent, reliable transportation to work,
and groceries. In 2018, thousands of VITA volunteers prepared millions of
returns, and brought back $1.9 billion to communities across the country.
Reports from the IRS indicate that 731 Federal
tax returns were filed by VITA partners funded by Berkshire United Way last
year, returning $1million out of $2.2 million VITA dollars returned to
Berkshire County residents. Thank you to Central Berkshire Habitat for Humanity
and the Hilltown Community Development Corporation for joining us in this effort!
3. Congress recently increased funding for the VITA
program. In the latest spending package to pass Congress
(FY19), funding for the VITA program was increased by 20% to $18 million. We’re
grateful that decision makers recognize the value of VITA and the service it
provides to our community, please join us in thanking Congress for
their support!
4. Most VITA programs operate at full capacity. While the recent increase in funding was great
news, the truth is that many VITA programs operate at full capacity and are not
able to serve all those eligible in their communities. Therefore, we’re calling
on Congress to further shore up investments in the program for Fiscal Year
2020. Join us by adding your organization to this sign-on letter, and by sending an
email to your Member of Congress.
5. VITA is not a permanent program. Since 2008 VITA has been a demonstration pilot
program. Congress has to authorize it every year. We think a great 50th
birthday present from Congress would be to make the program permanent! Ask your Member of
Congress today!
To make your appointment for free tax prep
through the VITA program, please call us at 413.442.6948 today!
Julie Singley
Program
Manager, Community Impact
