Rideau-Rockcliffe CRC free Income Tax Clinic delivers $5.2 million in benefits to residents
When tax season arrives, it can bring stress and uncertainty for anyone. For low-income residents navigating complex forms and deadlines, it can mean the difference between being able to buy groceries or going without.
This spring, the Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre (RRCRC), located at 815 St. Laurent Blvd., will once again offer a free Income Tax Clinic to ease that burden, helping Ward 13 residents access the refunds and benefits they depend on.
Held from March 2 to April 30, 2026, the clinic operates as part of the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)’s Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP), which, the CRA notes, supports community organizations in providing free tax preparation for people with “modest incomes and simple tax situations.”
For many individuals and families, filing taxes is the key to unlocking essential income supports — lifelines that could help with rent, groceries and other basic needs. Without a filed return, benefits such as the Canada Child Benefit, GST/HST credits, and other provincial and federal programs can remain out of reach.
Last year’s success
Before the tax clinic opens its doors again this year, let’s look at last year’s success.
Thanks to the dedication of one staff member and 23 committed volunteers, the RRCRC completed 1,040 income tax returns in Ward 13. Those returns generated an extraordinary $5,198,058.14 in direct financial benefits for residents.
Behind these numbers is a powerful story of community care.
From February through the end of April 2025, volunteers contributed a remarkable 2,230 hours of service to the Income Tax Clinic. Most of these volunteers were newcomers to Canada seeking their first opportunity to gain Canadian work experience. RRCRC welcomed them, provided training, and supported them in developing practical skills related to tax preparation, customer service, and administrative procedures.
The clinic became more than a place to file taxes — it became a space for professional and social integration. Volunteers built friendships, expanded their networks, and gained valuable Canadian experience to add to their résumés. For some, this first opportunity led directly to employment before the clinic even ended. Their success highlights how community initiatives can create ripple effects, strengthening both individuals and the broader community.
The impact was equally meaningful for residents accessing the service.
“For our community members, the free income tax clinic is a space where they are greeted with a smile and supported by a dedicated team that guides them through the process with care and professionalism,” said Aline Abdulnour, RRCRC Community Support and Development Lead. Aline has been overseeing the Income Tax Clinic since it started in 2020.
Flexibility
Understanding that flexibility is essential, RRCRC implemented a document drop-off procedure last year. This option allowed individuals who could not wait on-site — or who had work, caregiving, or other commitments — to leave their tax documents securely and return later. This ensured the clinic remained accessible, practical, and responsive to community needs.
Accessibility also meant bringing the service directly into neighbourhoods.
While one volunteer remained on-site at the RRCRC to assist residents at the Centre, the team travelled to various community locations throughout Ward 13. Through long-standing partnerships, the clinic operated in Ottawa Community Housing (OCH) buildings, at co-operative housing sites, and at the Overbrook Community Centre setting up in community rooms to reach residents with reduced mobility or those unable to travel.
Positive results
The result is clear: more than 1,000 residents received free, high-quality support in filing their taxes, and almost $5.2 million flowed back into the local economy. That money helps families pay rent, buy groceries, cover transportation costs, and manage rising living expenses. It strengthens financial stability and contributes to the overall well-being of the community.
The 2025 free Income Tax Clinic at the Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre stands as a powerful example of what is possible when dedicated volunteers, strong partnerships, and community-focused leadership come together.
Appointments are already open for RRCRC’s 2026 free Income Tax Clinic. You can learn more about booking, supporting our work, and how to get involved on our website at: https://www.crcrr.org.
Gabrielle Davis is Communications and Fund Development Lead with the Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre.