2020 Census

Shape the future of your community!

As mandated by the U.S. Constitution, our country gets just one chance each decade to count its population. The U.S. Census Bureau counts every resident in the United States. The Census is mandated by Article I, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution and takes place every 10 years. Not only do we have to count people, but we also have to know where they live so we can provide accurate population numbers for counties, states, municipals, etc.

Data from the census are used to draw school and voting districts. It helps communities respond to natural disasters and secure funding for hospitals and fire departments. The results of the 2020 Census will help determine how hundreds of billions of dollars in federal funding flow into communities every year for the next decade. That funding shapes many different aspects of every community, no matter the size, no matter the location.

The 2020 Census uses a new design that incorporates online and phone response options in addition to the traditional paper option. The online response option allows people to respond using their desktop computers, laptops, smartphones, or tablets.

Here’s how the census helps you and your community:
• Communities use the information to plan bus routes, draw school district boundaries, and offer community services like SNAP, WIC, Medicaid, and other important health resources.
• Businesses use census data to decide where to put a store, office, or plant. These new locations create jobs and support the community’s economy.
• Businesses use the information to determine what to sell in their stores so communities get what they need.
• The information helps your community receive funding from the federal government.

In 2010, South Carolina undercounted approximately 18,000 people. This led to the loss of several hundreds of thousands of dollars for the state. This year, we know the populations most likely to be undercounted include those living in poverty or transient situations, children between the ages of 0-5 and people of color. It takes 10 minutes to complete the Census. It is safe, and your data will be protected under U.S. law. Make sure you are counted and help make a positive difference for South Carolina!

Responding now will minimize the need for the Census Bureau to send Census takers out into communities to follow up. It is easier than ever to complete the Census online, by phone or by mail. Despite rumors, your answers cannot be used to impact your eligibility for any government benefits, including any potential stimulus package. You can respond to the census or learn more about ways to respond HERE.

–SC Thrive