Unlocking Financial Relief: A Life-Changing Tax Clinic Moment

At Thrive Community Support Circle, we know that financial empowerment can make a world of difference in someone’s life. This past week, we had a powerful reminder of why our free tax clinic is such an important resource.

A 20-year-old young man walked into our clinic to file his 2024 taxes. He was a bit nervous—having owed money in previous years, he wasn’t sure what to expect. As our Financial Empowerment Worker reviewed his CRA account, we noticed something significant: he had an approved Disability Tax Credit (DTC) that had never been applied to his past tax returns.

When we added the credit to his 2024 return, he was stunned to see a refund of $3,800! But the good news didn’t stop there. Since he had worked in previous years, we knew he could claim the credit retroactively. We helped him prepare a letter to the CRA, requesting the credit be applied to his past three tax years.

Once processed, we estimate that he will receive an additional $6,000—a total of nearly $10,000 back in his pocket!

His relief and excitement were clear as he left our community tax clinic. This is exactly why we do what we do. Financial barriers can be overwhelming, but with the right support, people can access the benefits and resources they deserve.

If you or someone you know needs help filing taxes or understanding available credits, our Financial Empowerment Worker is here to help. Thrive is committed to ensuring that everyone in our community has access to the financial support they need to thrive.

Thrive Early Learning Centre: Empowering Families and Children

At Thrive Community Support Circle, we are proud of the positive impact our Early Learning Centre has on the community. In February 2025, our Thrive Early Learning Centre, which serves infant and preschool children and offers drop-in/respite care, reached an 87.22% utilization rate, highlighting the high demand for quality childcare services in our community.

The centre provides a welcoming space for 28 preschool children, including 3 infants, ensuring that children have the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive in a safe and nurturing environment. We also provide support for 10 children in drop-in/respite care, offering families much-needed flexibility and respite while they access Thrive services and empower themselves to keep growing.

Our programs are deeply rooted in community diversity and inclusion, with 19 newcomer children, 6 First Nations children, and 2 Métis children at the centre. We are committed to meeting the unique needs of children from a variety of cultural backgrounds, ensuring each child feels valued, respected and supported.

Additionally, our Newcomer Employment Hub (NEH) provides 7 preschool spaces for children, helping families navigate employment and childcare needs as they settle into their new lives in Canada. By offering a blend of educational, cultural, and emotional support, we are helping to lay a strong foundation for the future success of these children and their families.

At Thrive, we understand that investing in early childhood education is investing in the future. We are honored to be part of these children’s journeys, and we remain committed to providing a safe, supportive, and inclusive space for families in our community.