Once a decade, America comes together to count every resident in the United States, creating national awareness of the importance of the census and its valuable statistics. The decennial census was first taken in 1790, as mandated by the Constitution. It counts our population and households, providing the basis for reapportioning congressional seats, redistricting, and distributing more than $675 billion in federal funds annually to support states, counties and communities’ vital programs — impacting housing, education, transportation, employment, health care and public policy.
How the Census benefits our community
Federal funds, grants and support to states, counties and communities are based on population totals and breakdowns by sex, age, race and other factors. Your community benefits the most when the census counts everyone. People in your community use census data in all kinds of ways, such as these:
- Residents use the census to support community initiatives involving legislation, quality-of-life and consumer advocacy.
- Businesses use Census Bureau data to decide where to build factories, offices and stores, and these create jobs.
- Local government officials use the census to ensure public safety and plan new schools and hospitals.
- Real Estate Developers and City Planners use the census to plan new homes and improve neighborhoods.
Census 101: What You Need To Know
- Everyone counts. The census counts every person living in the U.S. once, only once, and in the right place.
- Your data is confidential. Federal law protects your census responses. Your answers can only be used to produce statistics. By law, the Census Bureau cannot share your information with immigration enforcement agencies, law enforcement agencies, or allow it to be used to determine your eligibility for government benefits.
- Taking part is your civic duty. Completing the census is required; it’s a way to participate in our democracy and say “I COUNT!”
The 2020 Census is important for you and your community. Counting an increasingly diverse and growing population is a massive undertaking. It requires years of planning and the support of thousands of people. Ultimately, the success of the census depends on everyone’s participation.
In 2020, the Census Bureau will implement new technology to make it easier than ever to respond to the census. For the first time, you will be able to respond online, by phone, as well as by mail.
For information, visit www.census.gov, email info@coab.us, or call (904) 247-4804.
CENSUS DAY – APRIL 1, 2020