The 2020 Census is still underway and the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service continues to play an active role in ensuring communities across Arkansas can thrive over the next decade.
Arkansas has achieved a response rate of 64.6% but many counties have response rates well below our state and national averages. Currently, Lawrence County has a response rate of 58.1%.
To help increase community participation in the 2020 Census, Lawrence County Extension office is participating in the 2020 Response Rate Challenge. Periodically, the Lawrence County Extension office will post the county’s 2020 Census response rate on social media to track response rate progress and to motivate community members toparticipate in the 2020 Census.
To track the progress of the state and each county onyour own or to see how our county measures up against up against other counties in Arkansas visit https://2020census.gov/en/response-rates.html.Â
Anyone who has not received 2020 Census information via mail or at their door should complete the survey online at my2020census.gov or by calling 844-330-2020. Starting August 11, you may encounter a Census Taker at your door if you have not completed your 2020 Census. They will wear masks and follow local public health guidelines when they visit your home. All census takers complete a virtual COVID-19 training on social distancing and other health and safety protocols before beginning their work in neighborhoods.
A complete count of Arkansas is crucial. Data gathered by the census provides statistics on how much the country has grown and provides a snapshot of just who lives in America: age, race, gender. The statistics collected by the 2020 Census decide how over $675billion is dispersed to states through programs like the National School lunch program and other programs integral to rural development. Census data also impactseverything from the boundaries of congressional seats to funding for public safety, education and housing programs. Census data is used for emergency preparedness and disaster response. Businesses also use Census data to make decisions about whether to invest in a community. Learn more about the 2020 Census by visiting https://www.uaex.edu/business-communities/census/default.aspx.
The deadline to complete the 2020 census is September 30. For more information you can contact the Lawrence County Extension Office at 886-3741.