Pittsboro, NC – North Carolina is at risk of losing about $7.4 billion dollars in federal funding if the remaining four million uncounted households do not participate in the 2020 Census. As of September 1, more than 32% of Chatham County households have not completed the 2020 Census.
In mid-August, the US Census Bureau moved the 2020 Census completion deadline from October 31 to September 30, 2020. That deadline gives Chatham County households less than a month to make sure that they are counted. Being counted means that federal dollars come to Chatham County to support the community in numerous ways. Chatham County receives approximately $133 million in federal funds annually which support hospitals, schools and roads. It also supports Medicare and Medicaid along with other federal programs.
“Completing the census is vital for ensuring adequate funding for our schools,” said Dr. John Eldridge, Head of School at Chatham Charter. “If we do not take part in the census, Chatham County schools lose money. Take a few minutes to do your part in supporting schools by completing the 2020 Census.”
“It’s important that you are counted, because the population figures from the 2020 Census will determine the number of congressional districts in each state over the next decade,” said Pandora Paschal, Chatham County Director of Elections. “The census will also lead to a change in the electoral map, as each state receives electoral votes equal to its total congressional delegation.”
Census workers have begun going door-to-door making sure that Chatham County gets the resources it deserves. Census takers are wearing masks and following health guidelines for everyone’s safety as they visit homes.
Chatham County residents can still complete the 2020 Census and avoid the knock by visiting my2020census.gov or calling 844-330-2020. Completing the census takes just a few minutes.