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Reducing Poverty Through Volunteers: The Impact of Community Volunteer Income Programs in Grey Bruce

The Grey Bruce Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) Network continues to make a significant impact by providing free tax preparation services to low-income individuals and families across the region. In collaboration, local CVITP organizations, social service agencies, 211 Community Connections and the Bruce Grey Poverty Task Force, support the program to connect residents with vital government benefits, credits, and refunds to alleviate financial challenges.

A new report, Reducing Poverty Through Volunteers: The Impact of CVITP in Grey Bruce, highlights the program’s success. “The CVITP is more than just a tax preparation service,” said Jill Umbach, Coordinator of the Bruce Grey Poverty Task Force. “It’s about empowering individuals and families by connecting them with the financial resources they’re entitled to.”

Counting the Dollar Impact

During the Grey Bruce CVITP Network Annual Gathering, three organizations—the Bruce County Public Library, South East Grey Community Health Centre, and The Meeting Place Tobermory—reported a combined $3,275,673 in benefits and refunds returned to households in 2023 Tax Season (Filed in March to June 2024).

“These numbers clearly show the positive impact of the CVITP program. Over $1.6 million in Bruce County alone is helping people cover essentials like housing, food, and utilities,” said Brooke McLean, Director of the Bruce County Public Library. “This program is one of the most impactful we offer, and collecting data helps us to tell our story better.”

Read the full report here: Reducing Poverty through volunteers: the impact of CVITP in Grey Bruce

Growing Need and Call for Volunteers

In 2024, the CVITP saw a rise in demand, filing thousands of returns and helping individuals access critical benefits like the Canada Child Benefit and GST/HST credits. “Without filing taxes, many people wouldn’t receive these essential supports,” said Cameron Bruce, Constituency Assistant to MP Alex Ruff. “Thank you to all the volunteers making this possible.”

The program’s dedicated volunteers work tirelessly to ensure residents can access critical government benefits, credits, and tax refunds, helping to alleviate financial challenges and promote economic stability.

As the program grows, new volunteers are needed. No experience is required, and training is provided. Volunteers can make a significant community impact while gaining valuable skills.

About the CVITP and Bruce Grey Poverty Task Force

The Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) is a Canada Revenue Agency initiative that supports community organizations in offering free tax clinics. Volunteer to do taxes for people in your community – Canada.ca

The Bruce Grey Poverty Task Force brings together community partners to address poverty-related issues through advocacy, education, and action. Bruce Grey Poverty Task Force – Our voice is power.

Together, they are making a measurable difference in the lives of individuals and families in the Grey Bruce region, ensuring equitable access to financial resources and support.

To find free tax filing assistance or volunteer in Grey and Bruce Counties, visit www.freetaxclinics.ca or Volunteer4BGTaxes.ca, or call 211.