More Than Taxes: How Trellis Tax Clinics Open Doors to Financial Stability
Ad, Community Development Worker, talking about his work in the community and the impact of Trellis Tax Clinics.
Tax season is approaching and for many in our community, filing a return isn’t just about paperwork, it’s a step toward financial stability. Ad, a Community Development Worker at Trellis, shares a powerful story about how our free tax clinics help individuals gain confidence, access essential benefits and take control of their future.
”As a Community Development Worker at Trellis, I have had the privilege of supporting many individuals in various ways, one of those ways being our annual tax clinics. One of the most memorable experiences for me last year was at The Maple, a housing program for female-identifying adults over the age of 25 who have experienced chronic homelessness. The Maple provides a safe and stable place for its residents, recognizing that everyone deserves a home and the opportunity to rebuild their lives regardless of past trauma, addiction or mental health challenges.
For many in our programs, things like filing taxes can be incredibly overwhelming. The process can bring up fear, uncertainty or past negative experiences with financial systems. As part of our commitment to meeting people where they are, we bring our tax clinics directly to them, reducing barriers, easing anxieties and ensuring that everyone can access the benefits and financial supports they are entitled to.
What has really stuck with me was seeing the pride on residents’ faces as they completed their tax returns. For many, this was a step toward financial independence, unlocking potential benefits and refunds that could help with their daily needs. Our volunteer tax preparers treated each person with respect and patience, creating a welcoming and non-judgmental space.
Thanks to the dedication of our volunteers and the support of The Maple staff, we were able to help 16 residents file their taxes that day. Their encouragement and preparation ensured that residents felt comfortable and supported throughout the process. It was a reminder that sometimes, the smallest actions, like filing a tax return, can have a profound impact on someone’s life.”
2024 Tax Clinic Impact:
276 taxpayers accessed our free tax clinics.
150 hours of tax preparation completed by 6 dedicated volunteers.
18 in-person tax clinics hosted.
50 virtual/phone-in tax clinics hosted.
With tax season approaching, our teams at Trellis are ready to provide this essential service once again. In 2025, we are focusing on supporting even more Trellis clients and participants, expanding our in-person tax clinic locations at The Maple, our Bowness, Pineridge and East Hubs, the SW Family Resource Network and The Orion. We’re also running multiple in-person clinics at the Genesis Centre to reach even more community members.
Between March and April, we will continue hosting in-person and virtual tax clinics, offering support to individuals, couples and families with modest incomes who need assistance with basic tax returns. If you or someone you know needs help, we’re here to support you.