2010 Census Affects Funding in YOUR Community
Did you know that the Census helps determine how more than $400 billion a year in federal funding is provided to communities? Census information is collected every 10 years via a form sent to every known residential address in the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and by census workers traveling door to door. This data helps to determine Title 1 allocations, college grant and loan programs, public transportation, road and community improvements, public health services, neighborhood improvements and senior services, as well as the number of representatives each state receives in the U.S. Congress.

Did you know that Fulton County’s participation rate was estimated at only 64 percent in the 2000 Census? New York State’s overall participation was estimated at just 66 percent. This affected how many seats were allocated to NYS in the U.S. House of Representatives and resulted in a loss to NYS of millions of dollars in federal funding for such things as the federal school lunch program, IDEA and Title 1. If counts are inaccurate again in the 2010 Census, it will be another ten years before the opportunity for correction arises.

How can you help your community get its fair share of money and political representation? It’s easy! When the Census questionnaire arrives in your household in mid-March, complete the 10 simple questions honestly and return the form by April 1, using the postage paid envelope provided. Count everyone in your household – all children, babies and adults, regardless of nationality, citizenship status, race, age or gender. Your answers are confidential; the Census Bureau cannot give out information that identifies you and does not share information with the IRS, immigration or FBI.

Have questions about the Census? Send them to 2010Census@empire.state.ny.us. You can also visit http://2010.census.gov/2010census/ for more information.

< back