What You Need to Know about the 2010 Census

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. As a 2010 Census supporter, you can help educate your community about the importance of participating in this historic event and help ensure no one is left uncounted. You can help your community receive the fiscal and social benefits to which it is entitled. Achieving a complete and accurate 2010 Census is in our hands.

Five Reasons to Fill Out Your Census Questionnaire:

1. Helps Build Prosperity in Your Community
Does your neighborhood have traffic jams, elderly residents who live alone, or overcrowded schools? Census data can help define strategies to make necessary public improvements in your community.

2. Helps in a Time of Need
Many emergency services linked to 911 are based on maps developed with the data from the previous census. Census information helps health providers predict how a disease is spread through communities between members of the population. And, when natural tragedies like earthquakes occur, the Census indicates to the rescue teams how many people may need aid.

3. Puts Government to Work for You
It’s a great way to let our leaders know who we are and what we need. The numbers are used to help determine the distribution of more than $400 billion in federal and state funds. The money will help to finance educational and school lunch programs, medical centers, emergency services, transportation and other needs in our community.

4. Reduces Risk for Businesses
Since Census numbers help reduce the financial risk, and allow the identification of potential markets, businesses can produce the products that you want and need.

5. Helps You and Your Family
The individual data stays confidential for 72 years, but you can request a certificate of past censuses to use it as verification of your age, residence, or kinship. This information can help you apply for a pension, establish citizenship, or obtain an inheritance.

Some facts:

• In 2082, your great-grandchildren will be able to use census information to learn about the history of your family.
• Today your children can use the information to assist them with homework assignments.
• Thanks to the fact that we have had a census every 10 years since 1790, we know how far we have come, and how much we have changed as a nation.

The City of Fontana is putting together a 2010 Complete Count Committee comprised of leaders in the community that have the ability to communicate the importance of participation in the 2010 Census to the residents and various groups in Fontana. If you would like more information on the City of Fontana’s efforts, contact Cheryl Cabaruvias, 2010 Complete Count Committee Chairperson at (909) 350-6559 or .

For more information on the 2010 Census and how you can participate in your community to support this effort, visit http://2010.census.gov/2010census/.

2010 Census Timeline: Key Dates

United States Census Bureau Media Department
Los Angeles Regional Census Center
Los.Angeles.RCC.Media@Census.gov

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