The St. John de Brébeuf Conference in Kingsville, Ontario, has been offering free tax preparation clinics for low-income residents for many years. This initiative began in 2015, led by Catherine St. Pierre, and is now coordinated by a dedicated subcommittee consisting of Carole Labute, Barb Leili, and John Campbell.

Each year, the team completes an average of 150 tax returns, supporting a wide range of individuals, including residents of a local assisted living facility, seniors, and others whom they also assist with food throughout the year.

Volunteers receive proper training to prepare tax returns, and the clinics are promoted through flyers posted across the community. During a recent visit, I was struck by the strong turnout, people were lined up in the hallway waiting their turn. Many shared that they return year after year, relying on this valuable service.

The clinic was well organized, with five stations set up in a large meeting room: one for registration, two for collecting initial information and documents, and two where volunteers worked diligently on preparing tax returns. This was the first of seven scheduled clinics.

This initiative is a wonderful example of responding to the real needs of the community with compassion and dedication.

Judy Jobin, President
Essex East Particular Council