Franklin County residents urged to respond to 2020 Census

The Franklin County Commissioners proclaimed April 1, 2020 as Census Day in Franklin County and are urging all residents to respond to 2020 Census invitations.

Census data is used to distribute more than $675 billion in federal funding across the country each year. In Pennsylvania, that translates to around $2,400 per person in federal funds per resident.

“If any of our residents are not counted, we do not get our equal share of the funding,” said Commissioner Chairman Dave Keller.

The Census is important because it provides the basis to determine the amount of funding vital to state, county, and community programs; assist local governments in planning for public safety and emergency preparedness; help businesses decide where to locate new offices, stores, and factories, which create jobs; reapportion Congressional seats; and redraw state legislative districts.

Invitations to respond to the 2020 Census will be delivered March 12-20. Once received, residents can use their unique identifier (included with the invitation) to respond online, by phone, or by mail.

The 2020 Census is easy, confidential, and important, but getting a complete and accurate count requires everyone’s help.  Historically undercounted populations include:

• Young children from birth to four years of age
• African American and Hispanic residents
• Immigrant and non-English speaking households
• Lower-income residents
• College students
• Homeless residents

If you live in the United States, you are required by law to complete the 2020 Census.

For more information on the 2020 Census in Franklin County, to see a sample 2020 Census Questionnaire, and for information to avoid fraud and scams, visit http://bit.ly/3brhy22.

For information on getting a temporary part-time position with the 2020 Census, visit https://2020census.gov/en/jobs.html.

Pictured above (left to right): Commissioner John Flannery, Downtown Chambersburg Inc Director Sam Thrush, Planning Specialist Jason Goetz, Commissioner Chairman Dave Keller, Planning Director Steve Thomas, Chambersburg Borough Community & Economic Development Specialist Guy Shaul, Franklin County Communications Coordinator Julia Lehman, Commissioner Bob Ziobrowski

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