What is the Census?

The U.S. Census counts every resident in the United States, and is required by the Constitution to take place every 10 years.  In March of 2010, census forms will be delivered to every residence in the United States.

When you receive yours, just answer the 10 short questions and then mail the form back in the postage-paid envelope provided. If you don't mail the form back, you may receive a visit from a census taker, who will ask you the questions from the form.  Any personal data you provide is protected under federal law. 

You can get more information and view the questions at the website - 2010.census.gov.

How does it affect you? 

When we all answer the Census, our needs are heard. 

The data collected by the census determines the number of seats Pennsylvania has in the U.S. House of Representatives.  It also affects the number of State Senators and Representatives (and influence) that our region has in Harrisburg.

Our community also benefits from getting an accurate count of residents because Federal and State spending is influenced by the number and needs of our residents.  The 2010 Census will help to determine how communities receive more than $400 billion in federal funds each year for things like:

• Hospitals
• Job training centers
• Schools
• Senior centers
• Bridges, tunnels and other-public works projects
• Emergency services

Plus, people from many walks of life use census data to advocate for causes, rescue disaster victims, prevent diseases, research markets, locate pools of skilled workers and much more.

That's why it's so important that you fill in the form and promptly mail it back.  Your participation isn't just important—it's mandatory!