Neighborhood Network News

Take advantage of free tax preparation assistance, view a few household safety tips from Atmos Energy, learn how to properly dispose of household hazardous waste this Spring, and learn how to save money if you ever need a ride in an ambulance in this week’s Neighborhood Network News.

Free Tax Assistance at the Arlington Public Library

The 2022 tax season is here, and the Arlington Public Library is here to help. They’re partnered with Tax-Aide from AARP to offer free tax preparation assistance. Tax-Aide will be available at the George W. Hawkes Downtown Library and the Southwest Branch Library through Tax Day, April 18, 2023. An appointment binder will be available for the public at each location for patrons to fill in their name in an appointment slot. Visit the Arlington Public Library website to learn more.

United Way of Tarrant County is also offering Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA), free tax preparation assistance for individuals and households with an annual income of $60,000 or less. Through VITA, qualifying individuals receive quality tax preparation services by IRS-certified volunteers. VITA will offer walk-in appointments at the East Library and Recreation Center from January 23 through April 15 on Mondays and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. And on select Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Learn more about available days.

Atmos Energy Offers Customers Household Safety Tips, Financial Assistance Information

Spring is officially here. Now is a great time to consider performing a few routine safety checks like inspecting your home’s natural gas piping and appliances and ensuring smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are in working condition. View a few household safety tips from Atmos Energy.

If you need help paying your natural gas bill, financial assistance is available from the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) program as well as Atmos Energy’s Sharing the Warmth funds through local assistance agencies. Visit
https://www.atmosenergy.com/assistance to find an energy assistance agency near you.

Make Proper Disposal of Hazardous Waste Part of Your Spring Cleaning

When you start your spring cleaning, remember to properly dispose of household hazardous waste like paint, motor oil, and pesticides. Arlington residents can drop off these items free of charge at the Environmental Collection Center, 6400 Bridge Street, Fort Worth. Proof of Arlington residency such as a current driver's license or water bill is all you need. Click here for more details, such as center hours.

AMR Subscription Program Helps Reduce Cost of Ambulance Transports

American Arlington Medical Response (AMR) is the City of Arlington's exclusive contracted ambulance service. Ambulance transportation in Arlington costs an average of $1,400 for a single trip. Arlington EMS’ Ready Care Membership Program prepares you for the unexpected financial burden that can occur when you or a family member requires ambulance service. As a Ready Care member, you are protected from the often large balance of a bill even after your insurance or Medicare pays their part. If insurance pays for any portion of your medically necessary transport, then the remainder of the bill is covered by your Ready Care membership. If insurance denies coverage or if you have no insurance at all, you will receive a 50% price reduction in your bill. Learn more about the program.