The Census affects more than representation in Congress. It's about money.
A lot of federal money sent to the states is based on population.
According to Democracy in North Carolina, $400 billion a year is given to the states. That's about $1,500 per person, based on the total national population.
However, states that have significant "undercounts" from the Census stand to lose a lot of money. The effects could be felt county by county.
"For every 1,000 residents not counted, a county could lose $1.5 million a year for school programs, health care, job training, housing, senior centers and more," said Bob Hall, director of the nonpartisan organization.
Democracy North Carolina took figures from the last Census to plot how counties might fare this time around.
Catawba, Alexander and Caldwell should fare OK if previous Census performances are met or exceeded.
Burke's chances of having a disproportionate undercount is classified as "Elevated."
The organization emphasizes that the numbers do not indicate any county is safe from not getting its rightful share of federal dollars.
"All counties are at risk," Democracy says.
The group uses research, civic activism and training programs to address state issues.
The Census is not a way to track people so the law or creditors can come knocking.
Census figures can determine the future of federal, state and local programs, the course of future legislation and how many families are in crisis.
Because of variables in reporting, the Census will give us a better picture of unemployment, poverty, educational needs, and housing than any other means.
Census figures are not extrapolated to arrive at a possible population and its demographics.
These are hard numbers that influence how much of our money Uncle Sam will send back to us.
So fill out the Census forms. It could be one of the best things you can do for yourself, a neighbor or someone in your family.
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