By Sen. Kent Williams
The amount of funds directed to hospitals and fire departments come directly from the data you provide when you complete the 2020 Census!
Every ten years, the United States Government counts every person living in the country. The data is used to determine how billions of dollars in federal funding communities will receive every year for the next decade.
An accurate count is necessary, the deadline for completing and submitting the 2020 Census has been extended to October 31, 2020. The US Census Bureau is urging every household to fill out the 2020 Census forms submit it by mail, phone or online.
If you think, the schools in your community need to provide more exposure and interaction with technology or more school lunch assistance – then complete the Census. Federal funds are given directly to schools in your community based on the data from your 2020 Census. Special education, Head Start and after-school programs benefit from your census data. The age and number of students in your community determines the amount of federal funding schools receive or if a new school is needed.
The federal government has $675 billion for grants and support to the states, counties, and communities based on the census data collected. Funds are directed to programs and services for pediatric care, new clinics, and additional services for families, older adults, and children to affordable housing for the elderly. In 2010, South Carolina received $12,691,509,891 billion through 55 federal spending programs:
• Funds based on the data go to support programs in rural areas, restore wildlife, prevent child abuse and help provide housing assistance for older adults.
• Critical census data determine funding for pediatric care, new clinics, hospitals, additional services for families, older adults, and children, emergency services, which are vital in preparing and dealing with critical situations, such as the current COVID-19 pandemic.
The National Conference of State Legislature reported approximately 18,300 residents were not counted in 2010. The report estimates that each person equaled $3,000 for the state. This lack of participation cost our state millions, $54 million to be exact.
Currently South Carolina ranks 42nd in the nation for self-response. -Response is 56.3% as of July 1, 2020.
Participation by County
as of April 29, 2020
Dillon 35%
Horry 39.9%
Marlboro 42%
Florence 49%
Marion 42%
The data obtained will have a significant impact on our day-to-day lives. It is important to respond to the 2020 Census. Go to 2020census.gov to complete your census online.
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As with all matters concerning state government, I want to hear your opinions and suggestions concerning these issues. Please contact me in my Columbia office located at 602 Gressette Office Building. You can reach me, or a member of my staff in Columbia at (803) 212-6008 or by fax at (803) 212-6011 My district office is located at 1305 North Main Street, Marion, SC 29571, the phone number is (843) 423-8237 and the fax number is (843) 431-6049. You may also email me at kentwilliams@ scsenate.gov. My business phone is (843) 423-3904. Please use this information to write, call or email me with your suggestions and concerns regarding issues before the Senate and in our community.