The pandemic has changed everything. Programs we’ve been offering for years have been retooled so they fit the new reality of physical distancing. 2020 marks 38 years Prince Edward Community Care has been involved in the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) “Community Volunteer Income Tax Program” but we’ve never had to provide the service this way before.
No matter, life goes on and taxes are one thing we can count on having to deal with. CRA has pushed out the deadline for submitting your 2019 tax return to June 1st. And now we have permission from CRA for our volunteers to complete your tax return and submit it by E-file, without ever having to see you in person. Creativity and flexibility are important aspects of coping with the pandemic both for organizations and for people.
If you are a senior 60+ whose single income is $30,000 or lower or whose household income is $40,000 or lower, you may be eligible for the program. The first step is to call the office at 613-476-7493 and leave a detailed voicemail. A staff member will call you back.
The CRA guidelines preclude volunteers from completing returns for: deceased persons, bankrupt individuals; for those with more than $1,000 of investment income; for individuals with capital gains/losses; or for people with business/rental income and expenses.
There is no charge for having your tax return done at Community Care however donations are accepted. For seniors who are shut-in we will arrange to pick up your Income Tax papers.
Non seniors who meet the CRA criteria can contact the Prince Edward Learning Centre at613-476-1811 for assistance with both the OESP and Income Tax preparation.
Community Care is offering several services to help seniors self-isolate at home so you’re safe from the virus. Progress is being made and the number of cases is somewhat down but we’re not out of the woods. Seniors are in the high risk group simply because of age but if you also have underlying medical conditions then your risk of adverse outcomes or death increase even more should you contract COVID-19. Community Care volunteers are delivering hot and frozen Meals on Wheels anywhere in The County. We’ll help you place online or email orders for groceries and for free we’ll pick up those groceries and deliver them right to your home. Same goes for medicines and other essentials.
Reassurance calls are available for the asking. We have weekly online webinars about interesting and educational topics. Weekly telephone group chats are also on offer. Our home maintenance program is ramping up for outside work – grass cutting and garden work. More services are coming available as government restrictions are changed. Physical distancing protocols must be strictly observed. Check the website, email or call 613-476-7493 for all the information.
Community Care helps seniors live at home. We’re here for you even during a pandemic. Call today.
-Debbie MacDonald Moynes