Residents of Berkshire County who earned less than $69,000 last year are eligible for free tax assistance through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, facilitated by Central Berkshire Habitat for Humanity. The program will commence on January 26, 2024, providing essential support to low-income individuals, people with disabilities, and older adults.
The VITA program offers free income tax preparation services, fully supported by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). All volunteers involved have undergone extensive training and hold the necessary IRS certifications. The assistance will be available at four designated locations across the region, including two sites in Pittsfield: 314 Columbus Avenue and the community space at Greylock Federal Credit Union, located at 75 Kellogg Street.
Service Details and Locations
Tax preparation services will be offered on scheduled appointments and drop-off options. Residents can access assistance from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Mondays through Wednesdays and from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Thursdays. Additional hours include 2:00 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and on Wednesdays from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Mason Library, located at 231 Main Street in Great Barrington. Appointments at the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts are available by appointment only.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, interested residents can contact 413-442-3184 or visit the official website at berkshirehabitat.org/VITA.
Community Support and Volunteer Efforts
The VITA program has been a vital resource in Berkshire County for over a decade, assisting underserved residents with their tax preparation needs. Carolyn Valli, the CEO of Central Berkshire Habitat for Humanity, highlighted the dedication of returning volunteers who contribute significantly to this essential service.
“Thanks to our dedicated volunteers, we’re fully prepared to support our clients throughout tax season,” stated Lynne Newton, the community navigator and VITA program coordinator. The organization also emphasizes accessibility by offering language support, including Spanish interpretation by appointment, to ensure that all residents can comfortably navigate the IRS requirements.
This initiative not only aims to alleviate the financial burden associated with tax preparation but also fosters a sense of community among residents who may otherwise struggle to access these necessary services.
