We all count during the 2020 Census!  By the time you read this, you should have received a form to respond to the 2020 U.S. Census. As you probably know, the Census is a hands-on effort we undertake every 10 years and it is more than just a government initiative or program. I would venture to say that responding to the Census where you live is the most important duty of every single person in America!

Why is the Census so important?  It basically comes down to three things:

• Data about who lives where.  How many people live in a given area and their demographics can affect everything from where new grocery stores pop up to where school districts decide to open and close schools or invest in new programs.
• Districting for political representation.  Once the US Census is complete, those numbers are sent to states to redraw districts for state and federal elected offices. An accurate count in Texas this year, could gain us up to three additional seats in the House of Representatives!
• Dollars for vital public services.  Knowing who lives where also allows public dollars to flow equitably in order to fund stuff like roads, hospitals, schools, and more at the city, county, state, and federal level. It can also affect where private and philanthropic investment in things like housing and parks goes.

So what do you have to do?  Once you have your official form from the U.S. Census Bureau, which should have arrived sometime after mid-March, you can complete the Census online, by phone, or by mail. When completing the form, it is important to keep in mind: 

• Everyone in your house—children ages 0-5, friends/relatives staying with you temporarily, etc.—before the April 1 “cut-off” counts. For example, I will be counting my newborn since she will be born just days before April 1.
• Any kids off at college or parents in a senior/assisted living community on April 1 will be counted separately where they live.
• Everyone should be counted where they live on April 1—even if you’re moving on April 2.
• Own or manage rental property? Your tenants are responsible for counting themselves and will also receive a form at the property address.

This is all a lot to keep track of, but just know that every 10 years it takes just 10 minutes to ensure you and your community count for the next 10 years!  As always, let me know if you have any questions whatsoever.

For more information, visit texascounts.org