The Town of Hempstead's Department of Senior Enrichment is offering a program whereby senior citizens learn to help other seniors in the preparation of their state and federal income tax returns.

Under this program, known as VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) Program, senior citizens volunteer their time in assisting their peers with the completion of their income tax forms. Representatives from the Internal Revenue Service help train these volunteers in the latest changes in tax laws. With this knowledge, seniors already on tight budgets, are able to obtain the maximum refund to which they are entitled.

I urge any town resident who is at least 62 years of age, has a general knowledge of preparing an income tax return, and has a willingness to devote at least three hours a week in helping their fellow seniors, to contact the Department of Senior Enrichment at 485-8100.

Income tax preparation training sessions are conducted by the Department of Senior Enrichment, and are held at their offices at 200 North Franklin Street in Hempstead. Any senior who possesses a basic understanding of math and the tax system is urged to volunteer. New volunteers are always needed and welcome. Training sessions will be held in January, during the hours of 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Training for experienced counselors will take place on Jan. 10, 11, 12, 16, 17, and 18. Training for new counselors will be held on Jan. 22, 23, 24, 26, 29, 30, 31 and Feb. 1, 2001. Refreshments will be served.

After completing the training program, volunteers are asked to work at senior centers and libraries throughout the township, spending at least three hours per week helping friends and neighbors prepare their 2000 federal and state income tax forms.

I urge interested seniors to participate in this outstanding program either by volunteering their time as an income tax preparer, or by taking advantage of this service to facilitate the preparation of their own returns.

The tax assistance program will be run from Feb. 5 through April 13, 2001. For more information about getting involved with the VITA Program, call the Department of Senior Enrichment at 485-8100.