FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
– March 12, 2024 –
‘Super Clinic’ Opens Doors to Government Funds That Could Change Lives in the DTES
CRA & Service Canada hold ‘Super Clinic’ at Union Gospel Mission
(Vancouver, B.C.) – Vancouver’s Union Gospel Mission (UGM) is hosting its third Super Clinic on March 13th, where community members in the Downtown Eastside can potentially access thousands of dollars in government support all on one day, in one place. UGM is partnering with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), Service Canada, The Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction, and Pigeon Park Savings to provide easy access to these essential services like tax returns, and helping people access their Canadian Pension Plans (CPP).
Edward Wileman went to the Super Clinic last November, and said it was very helpful for him. “Going through depression made it hard for me to file my taxes,” he said, “But at the last Super Clinic I got to file for eight years of tax benefits. With that money, I’ll be able to get things like a fridge and an iPhone.”
Wileman is only one of the many individuals who have reaped major tax benefits at Super Clinic. “Imagine finding out that you are eligible for benefits that could help to secure housing — the Super Clinic has the opportunity to change lives!” says UGM spokesperson, Sarah Chew. “We’re excited to see how creating access to key government agencies could open the door to transformative opportunities for people experiencing homelessness, poverty, or addiction.”
UGM’s Super Clinic could be instrumental in families getting food on the table, someone getting a job after receiving their ID, or even finding new pathways to exit homelessness.
“We know how important benefits and credit payments can be in making life more affordable. The free tax help provided through the Community Volunteer Income Tax program is key to ensuring people get the payments they’re entitled to. We are grateful for community organizations like Union Gospel Mission for hosting these clinics and offering support to those who need it most,” added the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of National Revenue.
Pigeon Park Savings will be onsite to help folks with their banking and saving needs. “As a financial institution we believe we have a responsibility to address barriers to economic inclusion and are proud to offer Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside community access to money with the respect deserving of every member,” said Branch Manager Sharon Buchanan.
The event is open to individuals and families in the Downtown Eastside. At a previous Super Clinic in November 2023, 68 individuals accessed benefits ranging from GST tax credits to CPP. With more agencies joining this time, UGM anticipates even more people accessing vital government services.
MEDIA EVENT DETAILS
Date: Wednesday, March 13th, 2024
Time: Media wishing to attend are welcome between 11 AM & 12:30 PM
Where: UGM Vancouver, 601 E Hastings St.
● Please RSVP to schew@ugm.ca before arriving
● Upon arrival at UGM, please sign-in at reception
CONTACT
Sarah Chew
Media Relations Specialist
Cell: 604-996-1417
schew@ugm.ca
ABOUT UNION GOSPEL MISSION
Union Gospel Mission has been feeding hope and changing the lives of men, women, youth, and children for more than 80 years. Through its eight locations in Metro Vancouver and the city of Mission, UGM provides emergency shelter, meals, outreach, career development counselling, education, safe and affordable housing, addiction recovery, and much more to those struggling with poverty, homelessness and addiction. The heart of UGM is to demonstrate God’s transforming love, ease the burden of those who are vulnerable, and come alongside people who feel cast aside. To learn more, visit www.ugm.ca.
