Tax returns of working poor contribute $800K to local economy annually

The local economy is $800,000 richer every year thanks to the tax returns of Thunder Bay’s working poor.

Volunteers working with the Lakehead Social Planning Board filed 5,500 tax returns last year for those making a salary of less than $30,000 and what would have been lost income for those who need it the most.

“We know going to a business is costly and most folks just can’t afford it so this is our way of being practical in poverty reduction efforts that are happening in our city,” LSPC director of services Marie Klassen.

The Community Volunteer Income Tax Program evolved over the decade since it was founded and now its volunteer base is gaining steam with four or five of the 20 volunteers working at once.

Klassen urged those using the service to have patience in the process as she praised volunteer efforts.

“They realize the poverty in Thunder Bay is still as critical as we know it is,” Klassen said.

“We’re always looking for extra volunteers and we know people who do this kind of work come back year after year.”

While the deadline for filing taxes is April 30, the program is available year round for eligible applicants.