#USA #Los Angeles #Kaimore #VITA Program #Earned Income Tax Credit

Transforming Lives: Kaimore's VITA Program

This tax season, Kaimore's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program made remarkable strides in aiding low- to moderate-income families across the community. With over 500 households benefiting from their services, the initiative successfully returned nearly one million dollars in refunds and tax credits to local families. For these participants, each tax appointment was not just a bureaucratic formality — it represented a crucial lifeline in a challenging financial landscape.

A Transformative Impact on Households

For many families, particularly those living paycheck to paycheck, a few thousand dollars in tax refunds can mean the difference between stability and financial strain. For instance, a single mother found hope as she used her refund to catch up on overdue rent, while a retired couple was granted a much-needed reprieve from months of medical bills. Parents of young children leveraged their credits to purchase essential school supplies and groceries, ensuring a sound future for their children.

Through the VITA program, households collectively garnered over $700,000 in federal refunds alongside $230,000 in state refunds, re-affirming VITA's pivotal role in the community. These funds facilitated payments for vital living costs including rent, utilities, medical expenses, and other essential needs, ultimately providing a foundation for greater financial security.

Unlocking Antipoverty Tools

Kaimore’s efforts extended beyond mere refunds; they helped families tap into significant tax credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Child Tax Credit (CTC). Families accessed about $334,503 through the EITC, one of the most effective mechanisms in the U.S. for reducing poverty levels. An additional $229,633 was accessed thanks to the CTC and additional credits, directly aiding working parents and fostering improved financial conditions for their children. According to Joyce Lam, Executive Director at Kaimore, “These numbers represent real lives changed.” Each of these credits has empowered families to meet their financial obligations while alleviating concerns about day-to-day living costs.

Community Economic Growth

The ramifications of the VITA program ripple throughout the community. Dollars retrieved by families are often reinvested back into the local economy, benefitting grocery stores, auto repair businesses, and childcare facilities, thus stimulating local commerce. By ensuring that eligible families receive the refunds they are entitled to, Kaimore is playing an integral role in resurrecting the economic structure within its community.

Continuation and Expansion of Services

With the support of partners including Toberman Neighborhood Center, East West Bank, and local volunteers, Kaimore's VITA program has gained significant traction and recognizance. It currently serves low- to moderate-income families and continues to strive for growth. Kaimore is actively seeking new sponsors and partnerships to expand this invaluable service in the coming tax season, with special attention to reaching underserved demographics — including families, veterans, and transition-aged youth.

“Here at Kaimore, we aim not just to assist people in filing their taxes, but also to motivate them to reclaim their futures,” Lam emphasized. The VITA program's direct approach allows Kaimore to make a marked difference in the lives of families, restoring dignity and enabling them to reclaim control over their financial situations.

For more details on how the VITA program operates or to explore sponsorship opportunities, you can visit Kaimore's website or contact them directly via email at [email protected].