For many, filing taxes can range from being either an annual nuisance to a piece of quick and easy life administration. For those we serve in the Downtown Eastside, filing taxes can be a lifeline that enables them to access housing, their pension, social assistance programs. Each year we process thousands of tax returns for individuals, families, seniors, and students who are low-income and many times, face barriers to completing their tax returns. Hundreds of thousands of dollars have been returned to the pockets of those who need it thanks to this critical service.