Appointments for free tax preparation through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program opened on Jan. 20 for eligible New Hampshire residents with household incomes up to $69,000.
The program is administered by Granite United Way and provides no-cost, confidential tax preparation services completed by IRS-certified volunteers. VITA is made possible through funding support from Citizens Bank, along with community partners and volunteers.
The VITA program helps individuals and families file accurate tax returns and access tax credits for which they may be eligible. During the 2025 filing year, the VITA program supported the preparation of 4,830 federal tax returns, resulting in more than $5.5 million in federal tax refunds returned to individuals and families.
“Free tax preparation is key to helping individuals and families receive the tax benefits they are eligible for,” said Nichole Martin Reimer, President and CEO of Granite United Way. “Through the VITA program, our IRS-certified volunteers help ensure residents can file accurate returns and access resources that support financial stability.”
Once an appointment is scheduled, individuals gather their tax documents and valid information and meet with an IRS-certified volunteer tax preparer. After the tax return is prepared, it is reviewed by a second IRS-certified preparer for accuracy before being submitted. All services are provided at no charge.
Residents can connect with the VITA program in several ways. Call 211 for information and assistance with scheduling an appointment, visit NHTaxHelp.org to learn more about available tax preparation options or use MyFreeTaxes.org to prepare a return online for free, with guided support available.
VITA services are offered at locations across New Hampshire.
The program strives to serve residents who may be underserved or face barriers to accessing tax preparation services, including older adults, people with disabilities, individuals with limited English proficiency, grandparents raising their grandchildren and people who are working but experiencing homelessness or housing instability.
Volunteers are still needed to support the VITA program. Those interested in volunteering can visit graniteuw.org/volunteer or email Jennifer.Hunter@graniteuw.org for more information.
Gemline installs EV chargers
LAWRENCE — Gemline, a leading promotional products supplier based in Lawrence, recently installed four Level 3 electric vehicle (EV) fast chargers at its corporate headquarters.
The chargers, among the most powerful available, were operational in early January and will provide rapid charging for employees, visitors, and the general public.
The installation supports Gemline’s ongoing better way Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) platform and its commitment to reducing environmental impact and encouraging clean transportation.
The project was funded in part through a state grant. Once activated, the chargers will offer free charging for employees, with paid public charging available to expand fast-charging access within the Greater Lawrence area. They will also be listed in major EV charging apps so drivers can easily locate them.
Frank Carpenito, president and CEO of Gemline, called the installation a milestone in the company’s history.
“By providing free Level 3 charging for employees and expanding local access to a fast, reliable EV infrastructure, we are taking practical steps toward a cleaner future while supporting our team, our community, and the environment,” he said.
Pinkerton honors administrator
DERRY, N.H. — Pinkerton Academy is proud to announce that Associate Dean of Students Kimberly Larkin has been named New Hampshire’s High School Assistant Principal of the Year by the New Hampshire Association of School Principals.
Larkin was nominated by the Head of School, Michael Perez, and underwent an intensive selection process that involved written recommendations from students and staff as well as on-campus interviews with colleagues, students and parents.
“We are all extremely proud of the work that Kim does each day to support students and staff. She goes beyond what is expected to meet people where they are and help them succeed,” said Head of School Timothy Powers. “Kim is most deserving of this recognition.”
Salem welcomes new wine bar
SALEM, N.H. — Friends, family and community members celebrated the grand opening of AV Wine Bar in Salem earlier this month with a festive ribbon cutting ceremony.
The wine bar offers award-winning, organic New Hampshire wines paired with a menu of thoughtfully crafted small plates. Guests can enjoy a wine flight and charcuterie before exploring Tuscan Village, lingering over a leisurely meal or stopping by the outdoor wine counter for “wine-to-go.”
For more information, visit avwinebar.com/
Eagle Estates opens in Salem
SALEM, N.H. — Friends, family and community members celebrated the grand opening of Eagle Estates with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Verani Realty earlier this week, marking an exciting new chapter for 55+ luxury living in the region.
Guests toured the brand-new, garden-style condos designed for comfortable, low-maintenance living while enjoying delicious treats from WhiskChick.
Located at 380 Main St., Eagle Estates offers a range of amenities to enhance residents’ lifestyles. The community features a fully equipped workout room with a sauna, picnic areas and outdoor patios, a double pickleball court, a dog park and a theater room.
Residents can also enjoy convenient storage areas, a community event space with a kitchen and office and underground parking.
With prices starting at $295,000, Eagle Estates combines convenience, luxury and a strong sense of community in one beautifully designed space.
To learn more, visit eagleestatessalemnh.com
Senior living center honored
WINDHAM — Warde Senior Living, a Catholic Charities senior health care facility, was named among the nation’s top providers of short-term rehabilitation for 2025 by U.S. News & World Report.
The annual Best Nursing Homes ratings, now in their 15th year, evaluate nearly 15,000 nursing homes nationwide using quality and performance data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Facilities earning a “High Performing” rating in short-term rehabilitation are recognized for strong staffing, inspection results and resident outcomes, including successful returns home.
Warde Senior Living was recognized for short-term excellence.
“This honor is a testament to the hard work and steadfast dedication of our associates and community,” said Shari LaRoche, administrator of Warde Senior Living. “Every day, our focus is on helping individuals recover with dignity, confidence, and personalized care so they can return home stronger and more independent.”
Located on 40 serene acres in Windham, Warde Senior Living provides 24-hour skilled nursing care and comprehensive short-term rehabilitation services for individuals recovering from surgery, illness or injury. Services include physical, occupational and speech therapy, with individualized care plans tailored to each resident’s conditions, goals and recovery timeline.
The community features private rehabilitation rooms, internet and Wi-Fi access, personalized dining services, and a supportive environment designed to promote healing.
Warde Senior Living offers 32 private rehabilitation rooms and is expanding in the coming months with the addition of 16 more.
In addition to short-term rehabilitation, Warde Senior Living offers long-term care, respite care, palliative care, assisted living and independent living through Searles Place at Warde, a 21-apartment community located on campus.
For more information, visit wardeseniorliving.com
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