Alachua County Council of PTA’s is proud to support the 2020 U.S. Census, and we hope you will plan to participate!
What is the 2020 U.S. Census?
The census is a “roll call,” or count of the U.S. population that happens every 10 years, providing a snapshot of population characteristics.
Why is the Census important?
An accurate census count ensures that our community’s children receive the federal funding they are entitled to. Federally funded programs for children include: Headstart, Title I funding (which provides programming, teacher support and other services for schools with a high percent of low income families), the national school lunch program and special education grants. Other community-wide programs that receive federal funding include healthcare, roads, nutritional assistance programs (SNAP), and Medicaid.
Florida receives $67 million fewer federal dollars than we should each year because so many children were not counted during the last census. Alachua County lost approximately $390 million in the last decade because of overall undercounting.
For the first time this year, the census will be available online. You will have three ways to provide your information: through the mail, phone, or online.
All information provided through the U.S. Census is confidential, safe, secure and protected by federal law. Your answers can only be used to provide statistics. They cannot be used against you in any way.
Key Census 2020 Dates:
Between March 12 and March 20, all households will receive a postcard in the mail with instructions for how to participate. April 1 is the official observation of Census Day nationwide. On May 1, census workers will begin to visit households that have not yet participated. July 31st is the last day to participate.
Visit: www.CountingOnYou.US for more information!