E-Newsletter: October 2021

Montgomery County
Community Action Agency

Get to Know the Community Action Board Members

This is the fourth installment in a series featuring three Community Action Board members each month. One board member is profiled from each section of the tri-partite board: public, private/non-profit, and representatives of the low-income community.  

Erika Conner serves in the low-income sector of the board as a representative of the low-income community of East Montgomery County. She is also an at-large member of the board’s Executive Committee and a member of the Community Advocacy Institute Planning Committee. For twenty-two years, Ms. Conner has been a proud resident of East Montgomery County. As a single parent, she raised her daughter in the County and served her community as a volunteer and a resident counselor. As a long-term substitute teacher, Ms. Conner had the pleasure of meeting and working with youth and families throughout the county. Today she continues to serve her community as a resident counselor at the Housing Opportunities Commission. She has mentored middle and elementary-school girls, facilitated workshops for teen mothers, volunteered at Thanksgiving Day events with GAP Busters, helped with health fairs sponsored by Emmanuel Brinklow SDA, and she offers support to several community initiatives and boards.  Being on the CAB has opened my eyes to the importance of advocacy to elevate issues and people who might go unnoticed. I hope to bring awareness and change to the lives of low-income residents of Montgomery County. – Erika Conner

Danette Lawrence serves in the public sector of the board as a representative of the Housing Opportunities Commission, where she currently serves as the Service Coordination Supervisor of the Resident Services Division. The Division offers a variety of services and programs for seniors, families, and youth. Several noteworthy services include programs focused on self-sufficiency/sustainability, financial literacy, STEM/ STEAM, and employment assistance. Previously, Ms. Lawrence worked as Critical Case Manager/Team Lead for the District of Columbia Department of Human Services/ Virginia Williams Family Resource Center. Ms. Lawrence has supervised staff and directed, managed, and coordinated social work internships. Ms. Lawrence received a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Massachusetts and her Master of Social Work from Smith College School of Social Work. Ms. Lawrence is a firm believer in giving back to the community; she has volunteered with the Girl Scouts of the Nation’s Capital for over 14 years and has been a mentor since 1999. A quote that comes to mind when I think about what I have learned as a participant of the CAB is by Samantha Power, "All Advocacy is, at its core, an exercise in empathy."  I have learned that in order to create an equitable system, one does not have to always see the problem through their own perspective, but allow for understanding through the lens of the person who is seeking the change. – Danette Lawrence

Nominated by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Timothy Robinson serves in the private/nonprofit sector of the board.  He is the newest member of the board, joining in March 2021.  Professionally, Mr. Robinson serves as principal with TRI Development LLC, a Maryland-based business development and business management consulting firm. Previously, Mr. Robinson worked for IBM where he managed logistics, people, and over three million dollars’ worth of inventory in Western New York. He has built and managed operations groups from start-ups to Fortune 100 companies. Mr. Robinson is a native of Rochester, New York and a graduate of the University of Rochester with a bachelor’s degree in Economics with a finance concentration. He earned his MBA from the University of Maryland University College. I can say that I have been made aware of some of the great strides and efforts that have been made by my fellow board members, and those that came before us on closing the equity gaps that we have in our communities of color. I’m proud to be a part of a group that works so hard to educate, empower and bring our community together. – Timothy Robinson Check back next month for more profiles of CAB members!

Advocacy Training Program Underway

The 2021 – 2022 Community Advocacy Institute (CAI) began on October 13 with a virtual orientation session.  Participants learned about the upcoming workshops and had a chance to get to know each other and the Community Action Board members. The first workshop on November 3, Advocacy 101, will feature a panel discussion with local and state elected officials, as well as a presentation about the County’s legislative process. New to this year’s CAI program is the inclusion of simultaneous Spanish interpretation at all virtual workshops.  All written materials are also being translated into Spanish.

IRS, Security Summit partners remind families to make online safety a priority during National Cybersecurity Month

IR-2021-209, October 22, 2021

WASHINGTON – The Internal Revenue Service today reminded families, teens and senior citizens about the continued importance of protecting personal and financial information (.pdf) online. Although the IRS and its Security Summit partners continue making strides in fighting identity theft and fraudulent tax returns, help is needed.

The Security Summit works to protect taxpayers from criminals that file fraudulent returns for refunds. The Summit coalition includes representatives of the software industry, tax preparation firms, payroll and tax financial product processors as well as state tax administrators and the IRS, which work together year-round to protect taxpayers.

During National Cybersecurity Month, the IRS is asking parents, families and others to be mindful of the pitfalls that can be found by sharing devices at home, shopping online and through navigating various social media platforms. Often, those who are less experienced can put themselves and others at risk by leaving an unnecessary trail of personal information for fraudsters.

Staying safe online

Here are a few common-sense suggestions that can make a difference for children, teens and other vulnerable groups to potential dangers to protect their personal data:

- Teach them to recognize and avoid scams. Phishing emails, threatening phone calls and texts from thieves posing as the IRS or legitimate organizations pose ongoing risks. Do not click on links or download attachments from unknown or suspicious emails.

- Remind them why security is important. Be careful not to reveal too much personal information. Keeping data secure and only providing what is necessary minimizes online exposure to scammers and criminals. Birthdates, addresses, age, financial information such as bank account and Social Security numbers are among things that should not be shared freely.

- Teach them about public Wi-Fi networks. Connection to Wi-Fi in a mall or coffee shop is convenient but it may not be safe. Hackers and cybercriminals can easily intercept personal information. Always use a virtual private network when connecting to public Wi-Fi.

- Always use security software with firewall and anti-virus protections. Make sure the security software is always turned on and can automatically update. Remember, to encrypt sensitive files such as tax records stored on computers. Be sure all family members have comprehensive protection especially if devices are being shared. Use strong, unique passwords for each account.

Here’s how people can become an IRS-certified volunteer

IRS Tax Tip 2021-155, October 20, 2021.

The IRS and its community partners encourage people to make a difference in communities across the country by becoming an IRS-certified volunteer. These volunteers will help taxpayers file their tax returns during the upcoming tax season.

- Volunteer Income Tax Assistance offers free tax return preparation to eligible taxpayers who generally earn $58,000 or less, people with disabilities and limited English-speaking taxpayers.

- Tax Counseling for the Elderly is mainly for people age 60 or older. Although the program focuses on tax issues unique to seniors, most taxpayers can usually get free assistance. Many sites in the TCE program are operated through AARP Foundation Tax-Aide.

There are many reasons to volunteer:

- Volunteers can work flexible hours. Volunteers can generally choose their own hours and days to volunteer. Tax preparation sites are usually open from late January through the tax filing deadline in April. Some sites are even open all year.

- Volunteers can work virtually from anywhere. Some volunteer sites will offer virtual help for taxpayers. This allows volunteers to help taxpayers complete their tax returns over the phone or online. Some volunteers will conduct a virtual quality review with the taxpayer before e-filing their tax return.

- No prior experience needed. Volunteers receive specialized training to become IRS-certified. They can also choose from a variety of volunteer roles to serve. VITA and TCE programs want volunteers of all backgrounds and ages, as well as individuals who are fluent in other languages.

- The IRS provides free tax law training and materials. Volunteers receive training materials at no charge. The tax law training covers how to prepare basic federal tax returns electronically. The training also covers tax topics, such as deductions and credits.

- Tax pros can earn continuing education credits. Enrolled agents and non-credentialed tax return preparers can earn continuing education credits when volunteering as a VITA or TCE instructor, quality reviewer or tax return preparer.

- Read testimonials from real VITA volunteers. Learn more about volunteers who help people in their communities.

Interested in volunteering for VITA in Montgomery County? If you are interested in volunteering with the Community Action Agency's VITA team, email: VITA@Montgomerycountymd.gov or call 240- 777-1123 for information. Visit our CASHBACK website's volunteer page for Community Action's volunteer application and links to our partners' VITA programs.

TESS Move Planned for 2022

The staff of the Takoma-East Silver Spring Community Action Center (TESS) is excited to announce plans to move to a new office in Spring 2022. The new TESS offices will be located at 8703 Flower Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20901. 

Since 1968, TESS has served Long Branch residents at its current location, 8513 Piney Branch Road. TESS was the first Montgomery County services office to employ bilingual staff. Current staff speak Spanish and Amharic. In previous years, to meet community needs, TESS staff included speakers of other languages, including Vietnamese.

The new TESS office will continue to serve residents of Long Branch within their community. Renovations are currently underway to create offices that are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

We will provide more updates as plans for the move develop!

Montgomery County 
Community Action Agency
1401 Rockville Pike, 3rd Fl.
Rockville, MD 20852
240-777-1697 (main)

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Head Start registration for 2021 – 2022 school year

Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) continues to register three-year-old and four-year-old children for Pre-kindergarten or Head Start for the 2021-2022 school year. The registration process is online and no in-person contact is required.

All parents begin their registration online by completing a survey. Parents may call 240-740-4530 for more information or visit the Pre-kindergarten and Head Start office in person from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm at Rocking Horse Road Center, 4910 Macon Road, Rockville, MD, 20852. Informational videos to help parents navigate the registration process remotely are available in English, Spanish, and Amharic.

The Montgomery County Public School (MCPS) Pre-kindergarten and Head Start Programs are seeking donations of new coats for preschool children from low-income families. Boys’ and girls’ coats in sizes 4, 5, 6, 6X, 7, 8 and 10 can be delivered to Rocking Horse Road Center, 4910 Macon Road, Room 141, Rockville, MD, 20852. Gloves, hats and scarves are welcome, too!

You may drop off donations in person from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday – Friday, or you may order online and have items delivered directly to Rocking Horse Road Center. Please email Lisa_W_Conlon@mcpsmd.org with any questions, or call Lisa at 240-740-4530.

Thank you for your support!

Community Action Partner Spotlight on Equity

In December 2019, Montgomery County established the Office of Racial Equity and the Social Justice Committee when the County Council unanimously signed Bill 27-19 into law. Two CAA contract partners that are focused on promoting Racial Equity by engaging community members and providing training are featured this month.

The mission of IMPACT Silver Spring is to advance racial equity, justice, and liberation by working for change in individuals, communities, organizations, and systems. After receiving training from the Racial Equity Institute of Greensboro, North Carolina, IMPACT has applied the Truth, Trust, and Transformation (T3) initiative to strengthen capacity at the individual, neighborhood, and systems levels to break down barriers. The T3 initiative is applied to IMPACT programs, including showing and discussing films on equity and social justice issues, Leadership training, Women's Empowerment workshops, ESOL classes, a Workers Cooperative, and the Weaver Learning Lab, which focuses on awareness of the racial disparities and solutions for change. In FY21, four virtual Weaver Learning Lab sessions drew 26 – 30 participants each, and over 100 total participants, and alumni continue the discussions. IMPACT also is a part of the Montgomery County Racial Equity (MORE) Network Initiative. IMPACT organizes, facilitates, and provides interpretation for meetings. The MORE Network seeks to ensure that Montgomery County develops policies that make concrete, tangible, and measurable changes to eliminate racial inequities and injustices in our communities. The MORE Network currently has 280 members, including local community organizations, a collaboration of community members, grassroots organizations, non-profits, and other stakeholders who are working towards racial equity and its intersections. It was organized to bring together individuals, groups, and organizations working towards a common goal of racial equity in Montgomery County.

Leadership Montgomery serves the County with the mission to educate, inspire, convene, and connect leaders to advance Montgomery County. Leadership Montgomery also partnered with the Racial Equity Institute to develop a two-day Racial Equity Institute (REI) training, and an eight-month Racial Equity Action Leadership (REAL) Inclusion training program. Leadership Montgomery brings community and non-profit leaders together to address systemic beliefs, practices and policies that have perpetuated racial inequities. The REAL Inclusion training program is designed to provide organizations with the awareness, skills and structures needed to identify and implement practices that lead to racially equitable outcomes. In FY2021, Leadership Montgomery had 260 participants in the two-day Racial Equity Institute, and 41 enrollees in the eight-month REAL Inclusion program.

To find out more about all Community Action contract partners, please visit our webpage.

What’s new about the Child Tax Credit? 

The CASHBACK website is regularly updated, including information on Advance Child Tax Credits (CTC).

- The tax credit amount is higher. The tax credit’s maximum amount is $3,000 per child and $3,600 for children under the age of 6.

- The credit is fully refundable. Even if you don’t owe taxes, you could get the full CTC refund.

- There is no minimum income requirement. You can have zero income and still claim the CTC.

- The qualifying age is higher. Children age 17 and under can qualify for the credit.

- You can now receive advance payments. If you already qualify for the current CTC when you filed your 2020 tax return (which you file in 2021), you can start receiving part of the expanded credit during 2021. You don’t have to wait until you file your 2021 tax return (which you file in 2022). The IRS will send you monthly payments for half your new credit between July and December 2021.

- The phase out rate is lower. The CTC amount will start to gradually decrease starting at $75,000 ($150,000 for married couples and $112,500 for heads of households).

In order to receive the Advance CTC, you must file your 2020 taxes.  The online IRS portal for non-filers has been extended to November 15, 2021 for families who don't normally file income tax returns so they can register with the agency and receive payments. If you sign up after payments are first issued in July, your monthly payments will be larger so that you still get half of your CTC amount this year. If you don’t receive advance payments, you can still file your 2021 tax return to receive the full amount of the newly expanded CTC.

The November payment date of the Advance Child Tax Credit is November 15. If you want to opt-out of the November payment, you must unenroll by Monday, November 1.

The December payment of the Advance Child Tax Credit is December 15. If you want to opt-out of the December payment, you must unenroll by Monday, November 29.

Resources:

Covid-19 Rent Relief, Phase 3

CASHBACK : VITA Services, Child Tax Credit information, covid-19 financial resources, and more

CFPB Your Money, Your Goals

CFPB Financial Education Tools in Multiple Languages

Montgomery County COVID-19 information website

Montgomery County COVID-19 Vaccine Site

Montgomery County COVID-19 hotline in English: 240-777-1755, and in Spanish: 301-270-8432

Asian American Health Initiative's COVID-19 Resource Guide

Latino Health Initiative Covid-19 Information

African American Health Program Covid-19 Resources

Food assistance information 

Information from Protecting Immigrant Families about immigrant eligibility for public programs.

Unemployment Insurance 

Office of Home Energy Programs – Utilities assistance

WSSC water & sewer bill assistance in English and Spanish. Call Center Advisors: 301-206-4001.

Family violence prevention 

Diaper distribution

The Community Action Agency is part of the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Community Affairs.