STATEHOUSE (July 17, 2020) – According to local legislators, 2020 Census responses are critical to future federal funding in local communities, and Hoosiers should respond now if they have not already done so.
Census Surge Week kicked off Monday to remind residents to complete their 2020 Census forms before door-to-door visits begin in some areas around the country as early as July 20. State Rep. Martin Carbaugh (R-Fort Wayne) said Indiana is currently tied for 10th in the nation for response rate, with nearly two-thirds of Hoosier census forms submitted.
"At its most basic level, the census provides a snapshot of communities that is used to determine the distribution of billions of dollars in federal funding," Carbaugh said. "That is why it is so important for everyone in Fort Wayne and Allen County to make sure they fill out their household's census form. Seventy percent of our county has already done their part, and it's vital we hit the 100 percent mark."
Carbaugh encourages residents to visit 2020Census.gov to fill out the census online. Hoosiers can also call 844-330-2020 or mail back the questionnaire sent to households.
Census takers will begin visiting nonresponding households in northern Indiana from Aug. 11 to Oct. 31 to ensure every resident is counted. State Rep. Dave Heine (R-Fort Wayne) said about one-third of households in Northeast Indiana counties still need to respond to the 2020 Census, including Allen County.
"There is still plenty of time to submit your response, and it's easy," Heine said. "Simply reply by phone, mail or online. Households that have not sent in their forms should not be surprised to see census workers in their neighborhoods to make sure there is an accurate count."
Census workers will wear masks and follow local public health guidelines when they visit households. All census takers complete a virtual COVID-19 training on social distancing, and other health and safety protocols before beginning their work in neighborhoods.
State Rep. Bob Morris (R-Fort Wayne) said everyone is required to fill out the census every 10 years by law, and the information is kept confidential. Personal information cannot be used against respondents by any government agency or court.
"The census asks for certain information to make sure those living in a household are only counted once," Morris said. "Each question is designed for a specific purpose related to funding and eligibility of certain government programs."
According to Morris, billions of dollars in federal funding to support education, housing, health and public safety are on the line as this data impacts strategic planning decisions about statewide job training, locations of new businesses and public transportation projects.
Self-responses are due by Oct. 31, 2020.
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State Rep. Martin Carbaugh (R-Fort Wayne) represents House
District 81, which includes a portion of Allen County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Dave Heine (R-Fort Wayne) represents House
District 85, which includes a portion of Allen County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Bob Morris (R-Fort Wayne) represents House
District 84, which includes a portion of Allen County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
