Fresno, CA (March 31, 2006) Project Refund, started this February by Councilmember Henry T. Perea and H&R Block, has successfully helped Fresno residents secure larger tax refunds. The program was launched to help raise awareness of the Earned Income Tax credit designed to assist low to moderate income filers. Over 500 people in Fresno were able to take advantage of Project Refund and have their taxes prepared by an H&R Block professional.

Councilmember Perea and H&R Block shared a total of $32,154.00 in reduced fees to help secure the following return amounts for the Fresno area,

-$1,630,324.00- Total Refund.

-$1,103,578.00- Earned Income Tax Credit Refund.