Artesia News

Census 2010: What you need to know

In 2010, the U.S. census will define who we are as a nation.

Taken every 10 years, the census affects political representation and directs the allocation of billions of dollars in government funding.

In February and March, Census questionnaires will be mailed or delivered to households.

After April 1 (Census Day), Census takers will visit households that did not return a questionnaire by mail. The 2010 Census questionnaire asks only a few simple questions of each person – name, relationship status, gender, age/date of birth, race, and whether the respondent owns or rents his/her home.

The Census Bureau does not release or share information that identifies individual respondents or their household for 72 years.

Everyone should participate in the Census as it shapes the future of your community and defines your voice in Congress. Census information helps determine locations for schools, roads, hospitals, childcare, senior-citizen centers, and more.

The 20210 Census will be different from previous Census efforts because the questionnaire will be much shorter and easier to turn in.

For more information about the 2010 Census, visit www.census.gov/2010census.