Census 2020 – Why It Matters
Chapa-De Indian Health Auburn Grass Valley | Medical Clinic
The 2020 Census is right around the corner – can we count on you?! Keep reading to learn about the Census, why it is important, and what to expect.
What is a Census?
Once every ten years, the government counts the number of people living in the United States as mandated by the U.S. Constitution. The process is done by the U.S. Census Bureau, a nonpartisan government agency.
Why Does it Matter?
Over $675 billion in federal funding is distributed based on census data – these funds are critical for local services and programs such as healthcare clinics (including Chapa-De), hospitals, fire departments, schools, roads, and more.
The census also determines the number of seats each state will have in the U.S. House of Representatives and is used to determine the congressional and state legislative districts.
Why is it Important to Participate?
An accurate count will help our communities get federal funding, congressional representation, and more. Participating in the census is also required by law and is a way to participate in our democracy and say “I COUNT!”
Did you know that for each local person who is not counted, our community will miss out on $10,000 in federal funding over ten years?!
Special Considerations for American Indians and Alaska Natives
Nearly $1 billion in annual federal resources are allocated to Indian Country based on census data. Historically, American Indians and Alaska Natives have experienced some of the highest Census undercounts of any population in the United States. It is time for tribal citizens to be fully counted in the 2020 Census.
How to be counted as an American Indian or Alaska Native:
- Householder Question: Whether a household is counted as an American Indian or Alaska Native household depends entirely on the race of “Person 1” the first person listed on the census form. If that person says they are American Indian or Alaska Native then the household will be counted as one with an American Indian or Alaska Native “householder”.
- Race Check Boxes: checking only the American Indian or Alaska Native option will ensure that you are included in all counts as native. If you check more than one box you could be lumped in the “two or more races” category along with all non-Indians who also report multiple races.
What to Expect From the 2020 Census
For the 2020 Census, each home will receive an invitation to participate. It will be a short questionnaire online, by phone, or by mail.
The census will include questions about:
- The number of people living in the home
- The type of residency (owned with a mortgage or loan, owned entirely, rented, etc.)
- Contact and personal information for the head of the household
- Information about additional household members
The census will NOT include questions about:
- Citizenship status
- Income
- Participation in government programs (Medi-Cal, TANF, SNAP etc.)
We encourage you to complete the census as soon as you receive your invitation. If you do not receive an invitation by April 1st click HERE or call 1-800-923-8282 for assistance.
For more information about Chapa-De or to schedule an appointment, call our Auburn location at (530) 887-2800 or our Grass Valley location at (530) 477-8545 or visit us online at chapa-de.org.
PASSIONATE PEOPLE. COMPASSIONATE CARE.
Chapa-De provides medical care, dental care, optometry, behavioral health, pharmacy services and much more.
Serving all American Indian, Low Income and Limited Income Community
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Chapa-De Indian Healthcare Auburn Grass Valley