Expanding Community Engagement
Young children are chronically undercounted in the national Census, and California has the highest estimated rate of 0-5 year-old undercount of any state. In Census 2010 there were an estimated 2.2 million children ages 0-5 uncounted. Why is this important? The flow of federal funds for crucial services and programs are tied to the Census results, so we want to make sure our young children and their families are counted.
In partnership with First 5 Monterey County, Bright Beginnings consultant Mireya Gomez-Contreras is working with local partners and communities across the County to prepare for the roll-out of the Census survey in April 2020, supporting and encouraging families with young children, regardless of immigration status, to participate by ensuring they feel safe and informed.
We will need all hands on deck to get the word out about Census 2020, so keep a lookout for materials. If you are interested in volunteering, distributing information, or learning more, please contact Mireya via email: Mireyagomezcontreras@gmail.com.