Cephas helps community members complete the 2020 Census in ongoing effort to ensure everyone is counted
Rep. Morgan B. Cephas September 9, 2020 | 1:18 PM
In her ongoing efforts to ensure everyone in her communities is counted, state Rep. Morgan Cephas on Tuesday helped local residents complete the 2020 Census ahead of the Sept. 30 deadline.
"It's not just about showing people how to fill out the form but also educating them about what's at stake if they don't," said Cephas, D-Phila. "Census data is used to decide how billions in federal dollars are spent each year and, for every person who isn't counted, Pennsylvania stands to lose about $2,000 per person, per year. These are critical funds to invest in improving schools, roads, health care, food security and other assistance programs and services that so many of our most vulnerable neighbors rely on to live."
According to Cephas, individuals came out to her West Philadelphia office to fill out their census form and get their questions answered, as well as receive free masks, hand sanitizer and important information about state-related programs.
"This opportunity only comes once every 10 years and participation is paramount," explained Cephas. "At last check, the census response rate for our section of Philadelphia was just over 45%, which is extremely low. We must do better to ensure the 192nd Legislative District doesn't miss out on its fair share of resources that our communities need and deserve now more than ever, especially as we face the ongoing challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and work to keep our communities healthy."
To help increase response, Cephas said her office is providing similar census assistance at these upcoming events:
- 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 12 at St. Barbara’s Church (5359 Lebanon Ave.).
- 9 a.m. - noon Saturday, Sept. 19 outside of Carroll Park (58th & Thompson St.).
- 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 22 at her district office (5921 Lancaster Ave.).
- 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26 at Overbrook Plaza (5610 Lancaster Ave.).