26
March
2014
|
16:15 PM
America/Chicago

VITA Mobile Unit visits Wesley Health & Wellness Center

VITA San Antonio is a collaboration of public and private entities dedicated to family and individual financial self-sufficiency. The focal point for this effort is the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program.

The volunteer-based program is comprised of a coalition of local institutions and non-profit organizations who support the program in its mission. The primary goal of VITA is to increase the financial stability of working individuals and families in San Antonio and Bexar county.

VITA’s mobile unit made a two-day appearance at MHM’s Wesley Health & Wellness Center to provide free income tax assistance to taxpayers who make $60,000 or less annually. In addition to free tax assistance, VITA volunteers help ensure taxpayers claim important credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit.

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Studies have shown that resources that enhance the quality of life can have a significant influence on health outcomes. The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services also cites language/literacy and access to educational, economical, and job opportunities as examples of social determinates of health. “That is why this collaboration with VITA San Antonio makes so much sense for MHM” shares Erinn Copeland-Whitby, Interim Manager of Family Wellness at MHM. Through this partnership, MHM is able to provide a venue in which residents may receive financial education and awareness which, in turn, can have a significant impact on their overall health.

“Making thoughtful and informed decisions about your finances are especially important for lower-income families. Seemingly easy tasks, such as, filing your personal taxes can be daunting without proper instruction or guidance which may lead to an adverse effect on your health. We are proud to provide this assistance to the MHM population through VITA,” explains Arlynn Ellis, Director of Family Wellness at MHM.