One answer is to help eligible families and individuals access the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC.) The EITC is a refundable federal tax credit that helps working people achieve economic stability and security. To find out more about the EITC, visit www.michiganeic.org .With the current economic downturn, the EITC is more important than ever for Michigan's working families. Estimates are that $12.3 to $49 million can be brought directly into the wallets of Michigan's working poor families through a successful outreach effort. I invite you to join me as we bring together community coalition leaders from across the state to raise awareness of the EITC and bring free tax preparation to communities that need it most.

To visit the Michigan EITC Statewide Initiative site, click on www.michiganeic.org .