Census: Chamber says everyone counts

Jessica Olson works the front line at McDonald's wearing T-shirts from the 2010 Census. Nevada/Vernon County Chamber of Commerce executive director Cat McGrath-Farmer said many businesses around the community will wear the shirts during the census period. "They will show their support by wearing these shirts for the important work the Census Bureau does, it affects all of us in many ways," McGrath-Farmer said. --Steve Moyer/Daily Mail

Census data is important; it determines representation in Washington, D.C., it helps local programs receive federal funds, and it is important in determining Medicaid grants.

Nevada/Vernon County Chamber of Commerce executive director Cat McGrath-Farmer said that for those, and many other reasons, the Chamber is partnering with the Census Bureau to get the word out on the ease of the census and the benefits of promptly returning the census form when it's sent to residents in the area.

"Census data helps in community planning for roads, schools, location of businesses, and the use of federal funds," McGrath-Farmer said. "None of the information that is gathered is shared outside of the census bureau."

According to McGrath-Farmer the census form is short, quick to fill out and isn't intrusive.

"The questionnaire this year is a very simple form and takes just a few minutes to fill out, it's only 10 questions long," McGrath-Farmer said.

McGrath-Farmer listed some of the reasons answering the census questionnaire quickly and truthfully was important.

"An accurate census provides programs such as the school lunch and breakfast program, the food stamp program, special education and adult education grants, Women Infants and Children nutrition program grants and other programs," McGrath-Farmer said.

McGrath-Farmer pointed out that census data is important in other ways than just funding, a citizen's voice in Washington, D.C., is affected by the numbers as well.

"Maintaining a population base is important, census numbers determine a state's representation in the U.S. House of Representatives," McGrath-Farmer said.

Not turning in a questionnaire also causes the census bureau to take extra steps to assure an accurate count.

"If you don't mail in the form you will be contacted by a census employee at a later date," McGrath-Farmer said.

"It just saves everyone time and effort to go ahead and return the form when it comes."