Be Counted and Help the Community - Census 2020
Once every decade, the federal government conducts a census of the entire population to count everyone in the United States and record basic information about them. Our nation’s founders believed this data was so important that they mandated the decennial census in the Constitution.
It's important, but why should you complete the 2020 Census? The 2020 Census counts help shape your future. 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. Think of your morning commute: Census results influence highway planning and construction, as well as grants for buses, subways, and other public transit systems. Or think of your local schools. Census results help determine how money is allocated for grants that support teachers and special education. The list goes on, including programs to support rural areas, to restore wildlife, to prevent child abuse, to prepare for wildfires, and to provide housing assistance for older adults. It also helps communities respond to natural disasters and pandemics and secure funding for hospitals and even fire departments. An accurate count is essential for our state, our region, and our city.
In 2020, for the first time ever, the U.S. Census Bureau will accept responses online, but you can still respond by phone or mail if you prefer.
Don't be scammed, and report suspected fraud. Learn more about protecting yourself by clicking here, or call 1.844.330.2020 to speak to a Census Bureau Representative.
Strict federal law protects your census responses. It is against the law for any Census Bureau employee to disclose or publish any census information that identifies an individual or business. Census Bureau employees take a lifelong pledge of confidentiality to handle data responsibly and keep respondents’ information private. The penalty for wrongful disclosure is a fine of up to $250,000 or imprisonment for up to 5 years, or both. No law enforcement agency (not the DHS, ICE, FBI, or CIA) can access or use your personal information at any time. Data collected can only be used for statistical purposes that help inform important decisions, including how much federal funding your community receives. The Census Bureau will never ask for your Social Security number, bank or credit card account numbers, money or donations, or anything on behalf of a political party. The Census Bureau has a robust cybersecurity program that incorporates industry best practices and federal security standards for encrypting data.
To make sure that you are counted as a member of the Fort Wright community please complete your Census in a timely manner. To learn more about Census 2020 and how your information can make a difference to our community and region please visit: 2020census.gov and review the following 2020 Census at a Glance Data:
Thank You, and BE COUNTED!
Dave Hatter, Mayor
City of Fort Wright