Macon-Bibb County to hold census celebration March 14

This week is the first phase of collecting data for the 2020 U.S. Census. Macon-Bibb County residents who receive a Census postcard in the mail can start filling out their form to be counted. This year the form can be filled out by phone, email or online.

The public affairs office of Macon-Bibb County has held information events about the 2020 Census to educate the public on why being counted in the Census matters. The county, along with the Hispanic newspaper, Que Pasa, will hold a Census celebration event on Saturday, March 14 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Smiley’s Flea Market on Hawkinsville Rd.

The Census is held every 10 years. The data collected determines how more than $680 billion in federal funding is distributed at the national, state and local levels. According to the Macon-Bibb County website, every person not counted in the Census is $1,400 per year lost every year.

The Georgia Census website reports that the 2010 data provided the state with $15.88 billion. A count of more than $9.6 million participated which resulted in each Georgian bringing $1,639.10 to the state.

Residents who receive postcards in the mail are encouraged to respond by one of the three methods available by the end of April. The official Census day nationwide is April 1. Census workers will start to visit the addresses of those who do not respond from May to June. The workers can make up to six visits to a home in an attempt to assist with completing the form.

More information about the 2020 Census can be found at https://www.maconbibb.us/census2020/.