Tax season often brings heightened anxiety, confusion—and, for many, missed opportunities. At CAMH, however, a dedicated team is transforming the tax process into a meaningful opportunity to provide much-needed relief and support for patient well-being.
Run by the Social Determinants of Health Service, the tax clinic is a long-standing program that assists inpatient and outpatient patients in filing their taxes and accessing crucial financial benefits. While it primarily operates from March through May, support continues year-round for those who miss the annual filing deadline.
"Filing taxes isn't just about compliance," says Jenifer Kim, head of this initiative and an occupational therapist within CAMH's Social Determinants of Health Service. "It's often the gateway to income that people didn't realize they were eligible for. A few hundred dollars can make a world of difference for our clients."
This year alone, the clinic has successfully processed over 300 tax returns with the invaluable assistance of nine dedicated volunteers. This stellar team, which includes CPAs and community members specially trained to assist in this critical work, demonstrates incredible commitment by offering their time during evenings and weekends. Most tax returns take place virtually, with phone and in-person sessions available for those who prefer face-to-face interactions.
Among the standout contributors is Penny, a retired CPA who has dedicated decades to supporting the clinic. She is well-known for her precision and compassion among both patients and staff. "It's incredibly rewarding work," she says. "Our family was touched by a mental health crisis, so I understand what the clients are experiencing. Some clients have not been able to submit their tax returns for 10 years, and aside from the cash they receive, they are usually so grateful and relieved that it has finally been completed. Helping someone access the benefits they're entitled to is about more than just money—it's about peace of mind."
Clinicians also play a vital role by assisting patients in gathering the necessary paperwork and coordinating with the volunteer team. Together, they transform what can be an overwhelming process into a guided, empowering experience that builds financial literacy and restores a sense of control.
“It’s such a relief, just knowing that the tax clinic was coming up,” shared one patient. “It was nice to have somebody who has a lot of experience look into it, verify it, and also suggest tax credits I didn’t realize I could apply for.”
The tax clinic is just one aspect of a broader vision at CAMH: a commitment to recognizing and addressing the social determinants of health—such as housing, employment, education, and income—that are essential for recovery. Jenifer and her five-member team collaborate with various clinical units at CAMH, manage essential partnerships, and lead initiatives like the fall Employment Fair, which connects clients to tailored job and education opportunities.
"Recovery is about so much more than just medication or therapy," Jenifer emphasizes. "It's about laying the groundwork for a fulfilling life beyond CAMH."
At its core, the tax clinic embodies care—meeting people where they are and helping them move forward, one return at a time.
