Getting Out the Count for Census 2020

 A complete, accurate census count is critical for us and our communities.

What is the Census?

Every 10 years, the United States counts the people in this country. We call this process the Census. Everyone counts: babies, children, teens, adults, older adults.

Why does the Census matter to me?

Illinois receives $20 billion in federal funding through U.S. Census data. This funding supports vital housing programs as well as Medicaid, highways, and programs that help low-income households, rural communities, and communities of color. If Illinoisans are not counted during the upcoming 2020 Census, fewer resources will come to the state.

Illinois is also at risk of losing two congressional seats in the upcoming Census, a change that would have serious political ramifications for our state.

What is Housing Action doing?

This year, Housing Action is joining other groups in our state to ensure that Hard-to-Count communities are included. Our focus will be on Suburban Cook County, and we’ll be working alongside many allies on a robust, non-partisan Get Out the Count initiative that focuses on racial and ethnic minority populations, renters, people experiencing homelessness, and low-income populations.

Together, we can ensure that our community receives the resources it needs.