United Way of King County believes in a comprehensive approach to ending homelessness, including providing low-income individuals the means to keep a roof over their heads and save for the future. That’s part of the rationale behind our popular free tax campaign, which last year helped return $17.3 million in refunds back to those in King County who need it most (you can sign up for next year’s campaign here).

That’s also part of the reason why on Wednesday, October 21, United Way of King County and other Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) programs across the country will be participating in the first ever VITA Day of Action, where program coordinators and volunteers will meet with elected officials and their staff to advocate on behalf of the working poor.

Federal tax policy such as the Earned Income Tax Credit plays a major role in ensuring that the working poor enjoy a stable financial footing. Our legislators need to be reminded of the vitality of the EITC, as well as other VITA legislative priorities, including expanded federal funding for community VITA, regulation of paid tax preparers who often charge exorbitant rates, and safe savings opportunities for all consumers.

United Way of King County has booked meetings with the local district staff of Senator Patty Murray, Congressman Dave Reichert and Congressman Jim McDermott. Although the elected officials themselves won’t be in attendance, key staff members with policy expertise and political influence will be present.

We’ll also be bringing along with us a few veteran tax campaign volunteers (and voting constituents, hooray democracy!) to tout the importance of the tax campaign.

And now for the most exciting news: We still have one open slot for a volunteer!  If you are at all interested in participating, please email Matt Levin at mlevin@uwkc.org.

For more information on the day of action, check out the National Community Tax Coaltion’s overview here. And remember, writing or calling your Congressmen can never hurt.