US Census 2010

February 16, 2010

Dear Friends,

Every ten years, there is a census of all of the people who live in the United States.  Based upon this count, the federal government annually distributes more than $400 billion to provide funding for schools, hospitals, roads, and emergency services.  The only way our county and cities will receive their fair share of these funds is if every single person is counted.

Some people are understandably concerned that the information they give in the Census may be shared with other government agencies. There are a number of safeguards in place to prevent this from happening, and the Census Bureau offers reassurances that that census data cannot be used for any other purpose. 2010 Census forms will be mailed to your homes within the next month.  I encourage you to complete this form and return it by mail.  Should you or anyone require assistance – in most of the languages that are spoken in Santa Clara County – the Census Bureau offers this assistance on the telephone and at the many “Questionnaire Assistance Centers” that are operating throughout the valley.

The Diocese of San Jose is a partner with Census 2010 because of the resources that a complete count can bring to our communities, especially to the poorest and most vulnerable who live here.  Your participation in the Census is essential to this process.

Since each person counts, I ask you to be counted!

With every best wish and kind regard, I remain,

Sincerely yours,
 
 Patrick J. McGrath
 Bishop of San Jose