Read insights, stories, and practical tips on financial literacy and community development. Our blog is a space for learning, reflection, and inspiration.

New to Canada? 8 Financial Things Nobody Tells You (But Should)

Moving to a new country comes with many adjustments. Financial systems can be one of the biggest surprises. At theFEI, we often support newcomers who are learning how things work here for the first time. Here are a few things we often share: Filing taxes is very important, even with low income This helps you…

Financial Mistakes We See Every Year (And How to Avoid Them)

Working in community financial literacy gives you a front-row seat to the same challenges many people face. At theFEI, we often see patterns — not because people are careless, but because financial education is not always accessible. Here are some common mistakes we see: Not filing taxes for several years Many people delay because they…

What We Have Learned From Helping Hundreds of People File Their Taxes

Every tax season at theFEI, we meet people from all walks of life. Some come prepared with folders neatly organized. Others come feeling nervous because they have not filed for years. Some simply come because they were told, “You should really file your taxes.” After helping hundreds of people, one thing is clear: taxes are…

Free Money You Might Be Missing: Government Benefits Many People Forget to Claim

Every year, we meet people who qualify for benefits they never knew existed. Sometimes this happens because they did not file taxes. Other times, they simply were never told what they qualify for. Some commonly missed supports include: GST credits Canada Workers Benefit Disability tax credits Child benefits Provincial income supports Many of these benefits…

Calgary Free Tax Clinic – For Seniors & Families

Tax season doesn’t have to be stressful. Join us for a FREE, confidential, in-person tax clinic designed to support seniors and their families in our community. 🗓 March 21, 2026 ⏰ 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM 📍 Silvera for Seniors, Vista Apartments 2622 39 Ave NE, Calgary If your household income falls within the guidelines…

Virtual Tax Filing Options

Filing your taxes doesn’t have to be stressful or time-consuming. At The Financial Empowerment Initiative (theFEI), we offer convenient virtual tax filing services so you can get the support you need from the comfort of your home. Starting February 28, 2026, our virtual tax clinic is open to individuals and families who prefer a simple,…

Money & Marriage Seminar — Strengthen Your Partnership, Together

  📆 Date & Time Saturday, July 19, 2025 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM MST 📍 Location Africa Centre 11808 St Albert Trail NW #106, Edmonton, AB T5L 4G4 Why Attend? Managing money as a couple can be both empowering and challenging. Whether newly partnered or happily married for years, this seminar will equip you with the tools…

Take Charge of Your Finances: Join Our Virtual Financial Literacy Classes This July!

Do you feel overwhelmed when it comes to managing your money? You’re not alone—and that’s why The Financial Empowerment Initiative is excited to offer Virtual Financial Literacy Classes this July! Whether you’re just starting your financial journey or looking to improve your money management skills, these interactive classes are designed to help you learn, grow,…

Let’s Talk Love and Finances

Money & Marriage Seminar Returns – Empowering Couples with Financial Wisdom and Relationship Insights The highly anticipated Money & Marriage Seminar returns on Saturday, July 19, 2025, promising to be a transformative event for couples, individuals, and families seeking to align their financial goals with their relationship values. Held at the Africa Centre, 11808 St….

Easter Office Closure Announcement

As we celebrate the season of hope and renewal, The Financial Empowerment Initiative will be closed for Easter on April 18th and April 21st, 2025. We encourage our community to take this time to reflect, rest, and spend meaningful moments with loved ones. Easter is a powerful reminder of new beginnings, and we wish you…