Making tax season easier in Assiniboia

Assiniboia

As spring begins to take hold in Assiniboia, this time of year brings a sense of renewal—but also, for many, the responsibility of preparing taxes. For some, that process can feel overwhelming, especially for seniors or those living on a fixed income. It is in these moments that small, practical supports can make a meaningful difference.

Over the past two years, our constituency office has been proud to offer a free tax clinic during the months of March and April. What began as a simple effort to provide assistance has quickly grown into a larger initiative shaped by community need, and strengthened by the people who have chosen to take part in it.

As the MLA for Assiniboia, it is a privilege to help provide a service that removes financial and emotional barriers for those who need it most. Filing taxes often comes with costs that can be difficult to manage, and for individuals already stretching their budgets, even small fees can add up. By offering this clinic at no cost, we are helping ensure that more people can access the benefits and credits they are entitled to, while easing the stress that so often accompanies this time of year.

Importantly, the clinic we offer is low-barrier and accessible. Participants are not simply handed forms or directed elsewhere – they are welcomed in and supported through each step of the process. Our volunteers take the time to sit down, listen, and guide individuals through filing their taxes step-by-step. It is a low-barrier approach that reflects the kind of service our community values.

Beyond the practical support it provides, the clinic has also become a space for connection. Each appointment offers us an opportunity to meet with you as constituents, listen to your experiences, and better understand the challenges you are navigating. These conversations matter. They help ensure that the work we do remains grounded in the realities of the people we serve.

And of course, none of this would be possible without the dedication of our volunteers. Members of our community have stepped forward to share their time, their knowledge, and their compassion, making this clinic not just a service, but a collective effort stemming right out of our community.

In just our second year, we have already seen an increase in uptake and an outpouring of positive feedback. It speaks to the importance of meeting people where they are, with support that is both practical and personal.

As we look ahead, I am grateful for the opportunity to continue this work. I am proud of what we have built together, and I look forward to offering this clinic again next year.