(Greater Dakota News Service)- The 2020 census count is a year away, but the U.S. Census Bureau already is making preparations. Children’s advocates say it’s important every child is counted in South Dakota, because the data gathered will determine how much federal money the state receives in the areas of health care, housing, education, transportation and other vital programs.
South Dakota Kids Count project director Carole Cochran says sometimes children or people living in rural or isolated areas, including Indian reservations, are overlooked. She cites a George Washington University study on how much South Dakota stands to lose if the count is not accurate.
Prior to April 1st of next year, the Census Bureau plans to send a letter or a door knocker to every U-S household. This will also be the first census since most households have adopted social media, and Cochran says that means many South Dakotans with computer access may complete the census form online.
More than a half-million workers nationwide will be hired to help with the 2020 census. Applications are being accepted now and, for the first time, people can apply online through the Census Bureau website at 2020census.gov/jobs.
