Seven years ago, California/Nevada Community Action Partnership introduced its Community Action Sharing Hope – CASH campaign. Funded by the federal office of community services, it focuses on the successes of running tax VITA and referral sites and building coalitions. “By supporting VITA and EITC, amongst community action agencies in California, the CASH Campaign resulted in tens of millions of dollars in EITC and other tax credits to low income Californians,” said Lynn Grogan, who works at the center. “Claiming federal tax credits is critical to building financial stability and it is important to increase awareness. Utilizing the available tax credits help provide an onramp to larger economic security, stimulate California’s economy, and create jobs.”

This was evident when EITC filer Maribel, a client who has taken advantage of free tax services offered by Foothill Unity Center, Inc., spoke at the press conference to highlight what these services have meant to her and her family. “Through the free tax services at Foothill Unity Center, Inc., I received $7,000 in 2010,” said Maribel. “With this money, I was able to pay off my student loan and buy a reliable car that helps me take my kids to school and get me to work.”

Data sources

• U.S. Census Bureau, “American FactFinder,” 2007 American Community Survey (accessed May 2011). Data came from the following tables: Statewide poverty percentages, GCT1701, Ratio of income to poverty level, C17002
• U.S. Census Bureau, “American FactFinder,” 2009 American Community Survey (accessed May 2011). Data came from the following tables: Statewide poverty percentages, GCT1701, Ratio of income to poverty level, C17002
• Half in Ten analysis of Table 1, 2007 State Expenditure Report, National Association of State Budget Officers.
• Half in Ten analysis of Table 1, 2009 State Expenditure Report, National Association of State Budget Officers.
• IRS EITC09. EITC09PY Table as of 12/31/10. IRS Master File, posted to IRS website, EIC Participation For Tax Year 2009, by State.