CAN-DO offers these services for low-income families:
- Volunteer Assistance Tax Service (VITA) is a federal program that provides free tax assistance to income-qualified individuals and families. Josephine McNeil, Executive Director of CAN- DO, says, “Many people are not aware that they can still claim tax benefits even if they failed to file a tax return for a particular year—whether they pay taxes or not. It’s not too late to file and claim benefits that may be due to you as far back as 2021. CAN-DO volunteers, trained by the IRS, will help you.”
- Assistance in applying for current benefits and services offered by local, state, and federal agencies: CAN-DO’s website has links to help low-income people apply for basic programs to which they are entitled, such as Food stamps (SNAP), WIC, MassHealth, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability, Child-care vouchers, and Utility discounts. In addition, the website provides information on adult educational opportunities, financial literacy, food pantries, and other resources.
CAN-DO (Citizens for Affordable Housing in Newton Development Organization, Inc.) is a community-
based nonprofit organization dedicated to the cause of affordable housing for individuals and families
with low and moderate incomes. Founded in 1994, CAN-DO has developed and managed affordable
housing units serving a diverse population. Though not currently developing new housing, CAN-DO is focused on a holistic approach to helping Newton residents build skills and develop self-sufficiency to stabilize their lives and maintain their housing.
