Senator Serrano, Advocates, and U.S. Census Bureau Encourage All to Participate in the 2010 Census

Senator José M. Serrano (D-Manhattan/Bronx) today sponsored an event in conjunction with Councilmember Melissa Mark-Viverito (D-Manhattan/Bronx), Community Voices Heard, and the U.S. Census Bureau, that aimed to help achieve a complete and accurate count of the population in New York's 28th Senatorial District for the Census 2010.
 
"With only ten questions, the Census 2010 form is a simple five minute time investment that will help our communities obtain the benefits, services, and representation they deserve," said Senator Serrano. "It's important to note that Census information is never shared with immigration officials or any municipal, state, or federal agencies. It is my hope that this event will help people achieve a better understanding of what's to gain by mailing back this questionnaire."

The Census Bureau provided information regarding the Census in the 28th Senatorial district and encouraged attendees to complete and mail back their forms. Each year, the federal government distributes more than $400 billion to state and local governments based on Census data. Leaders use this data to guide planning decisions on where to build new roads, hospitals, child-care and senior citizen centers, schools and more.

"With the help of our 2010 Census partners, the Census Bureau has a far greater chance of reaching every person living in the United States, than if we were to attempt this monumental task alone," said Robert Groves, Director, U.S. Census Bureau. "Through their unique roles in their individual communities, members of Congress can help deliver the 2010 Census message to every corner of the nation."

Senator Serrano's office is working closely with neighborhood churches, schools and businesses to make sure the public understands how important it is for all communities to be counted accurately in the 2010 Census. Census forms were delivered and mailed to households in March 2010. All households should mail back their completed forms, and Census workers will visit those that do not return their questionnaires to take a count in person. During today's event, the public had the opportunity to obtain assistance with filling out their forms, and were free to ask questions regarding the Census.

Information shared with the Census Bureau is completely confidential. By law, the Census Bureau cannot share an individual's personal information with anyone, including other federal agencies and law enforcement entities.

                                               ###