For many families in the Mercer County area, filing a tax return is more than just paperwork, it is a turning point. It can mean the difference between falling behind and moving forward. At United Way of Greater Mercer County (UWGMC), fostering economic mobility is at the heart of everything they do, and one of the most powerful ways they help families take that step forward is through their free tax preparation services, known as the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.
Each year, UWGMC helps individuals and families who earn less than $67,000 and are unsure where to begin. Many do not realize why filing taxes annually matters or how it can open doors to vital support like meal assistance, health coverage, affordable housing, college scholarships and more. Through VITA, they provide not only free, trusted tax preparation, but also basic education that helps people understand taxes. This helps to build financial confidence.
When people understand how taxes work and what they are entitled to, they are better positioned to build savings and connect to stabilizing resources. Their goal goes beyond a completed return; they want families to move from getting by to truly thriving.
Through VITA locations throughout the county and community partnerships, individuals and families are also connected to financial and asset-building resources, including budgeting support, savings strategies, credit-building tools, and safe banking options. These services help strengthen financial foundations, grow assets, and support long-term stability.
The impact reaches far beyond individual households. Just this past year, 2,424 filed their taxes for free through UWGMC, generating $2.4 million in refunds that flowed directly back into the local economy. Families also saved nearly $1 million in tax preparation fees, money that stayed in their pockets for groceries, rent, utilities, and other essentials. Reflecting on their commitment to working families, the average income of those served was $33,149.
“At the end of the day, we want everyone in Mercer County to be financially secure and able to prosper. Our role is to connect people to the tools and support that help make that possible,” said Sandra Toussaint, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Mercer County.
For information on how to get your taxes prepared for free and locations throughout the county, visit www.uwgmc.org/freetaxprogram. VITA locations will start to open February 2026.
