Economic Stability

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Between 2007 and 2013, the poverty rate on Long Island increased by 44%, compared to increases of 17% and 22% for New York State and the U.S., according to the Long Island Index. As that percentage increases, HWCLI works to ensure that individuals’ basic human needs are met on a daily basis through a robust social safety net of services addressing: insufficient transportation, suburban sprawl, lack of affordable housing, growing senior population and diversifying communities.

In addition, HWCLI strategically works to create pathways to self-sufficiency by tackling the root causes of poverty such as: segregation, fractionalized government and access to education, employment, and financial services.

Virtual Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) is one of HWCLI’s key economic stability programs. In partnership with the Town of Babylon and with financial support from Citi Community Development, HWCLI provides free tax preparation services to qualifying individuals and families earning less than $54,000 annually.

The service is fast, free and high-quality, ensuring that low- and moderate-income taxpayers can fully benefit from the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) without spending hundreds of dollars in fees to paid tax preparers.

For more information on eligibility and how to make an appointment, visit our blog: Everything You Need to Know about HWCLI’s Virtual VITA Program.

HWCLI’s work in Economic Stability includes:

Member Engagement : Long Island Regional Economic Development Council presentation

Coalition Coordination and Convening : Shed light on unique aspects of suburban poverty within all coalition work

Policy and Advocacy : Shed light on unique aspects of suburban poverty within all advocacy work

Meeting Community Needs : Outreach and education on EITC/VITA during the tax season