How to Complete the U.S. Census Virtually

The data collected by the 2020 U.S. Census will impact the amount of federal funding St. Landry Parish receives over the next decade. Federal funds help to pay for the infrastructure projects that are important to economic development, public utility projects, hospitals and schools - all things that make our community stronger and more attractive to growing businesses. This makes it critical that everyone participate by completing the U.S. Census. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed how the Census is being conducted, but it is still happening online and via the phone - making it easy to complete the Census virtually. This is necessary because even if communities re-open, in-person data collection will continue to be delayed until July. 

How to Complete the Census Virtually

The Census Bureau has halted all in-person activities for their staff but they have increased their call center capacity. Employees are working from home to gather the Census data and are answering calls to 844-330-2020. The Census website is available 24/7, and in multiple languages. 

Residents can fill out their Census information online, via phone, or mail self-responses throughout the collection process. Households were sent an invitation via the mail in March. The invitation contains a Census ID that you will enter online. However, if you cannot find your ID, you can still complete the Census. 

Your Participation in the Census is Important for Our Community

The U.S. Census is only conducted every 10 years. The Census aims to count the entire population of the United States. The Census asks American households certain questions such as sex, age, and race of each person in the household. These demographics help determine congressional representation and how much funding each state, county, and community received of the $675 billion per year in federal funding. These funds are spent on schools, hospitals, roads, public works, and other essential programs that influence economic development. For example, when businesses are looking for a new community to locate in, things like our university system and infrastructure are attractive. Federal funds help to pay for them. 

Census Data is Also Used by Businesses 

We are actively working to recruit new businesses to St. Landry Parish. During conversations with site selectors and business executives, demographic data is regularly brought up as a way to evaluate workforce capacity and the potential for a customer base. This data is gathered from the U.S. As such, it is critical that everyone in St. Landry Parish participates. Otherwise, the numbers won’t be accurate and the data will not reflect the true opportunities available here.