Everyone should do something to help ensure Texans get counted…billions of $$ are at stake!
by Mary Scott Nabers
CEO of Strategic Partnerships, Inc.
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Texas has a growing population, thousands of immigrant families, high crime rates and many regions where poverty is rampant - the funds are needed. Here is some of the funding that will be impacted for at least 10 years if Texans don't respond to the Census:
- Transportation for elderly and disabled individuals;
- Public safety grants;
- Illegal drug activity;
- Crime and violence;
- Adult education and literacy programs;
- Technology for libraries;
- Foster home programs;
- Head Start programs in schools;
- Homeland security;
- Fire and police training and equipment;
- Health care institutions, including emergency medical services;
- Research at agricultural experiment stations;
- Water and waste disposal systems in rural communities; and
- Loans and grants for community facilities.
While all of this is critically important, keep in mind that census data is also used to determine seats in the U.S. House of Representatives. Because of the state's increasing population, some experts predict that Texas could gain two to three seats in the House if Texans respond well to the 2010 Census.
The Census truly is a snapshot of the country. This year's form includes only 10 questions asking basic information, but the data collected will affect the lives of Texans every day for the next 10 years. It is too important for Texans to ignore.
