McClinton announces $10,000 to help ensure accurate 2020 Census count in Philadelphia

Lawmaker stresses importance of it amid COVID-19 concerns

State Rep. Joanna McClinton today announced a $10,000 state grant to help the Coalition of African Communities promote awareness and participation in the 2020 Census. 

 "As I help to protect my communities from COVID-19, I am also stressing the need for my neighbors to take part in the 2020 Census," said McClinton, D-Delaware/Phila. "The Census is a key opportunity to bring federal resources back to our neighborhoods to strengthen schools, fix roads and make health care affordable for all. However, these funds rely on participation, and with the public health crisis our country finds itself in, this grant is needed now more than ever to help convey the safe ways to be counted."  

The funding is part of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development's Census 2020 Outreach Grant program, which focuses on supporting efforts that target hard-to-count populations, including: 

  • Those who do not speak English as their primary language.
  • Ethnic minorities.
  • Immigrants.
  • Members of the LGBTQ community.
  • Individuals experiencing homelessness.

"The Coalition of African Communities can use this funding to remind people that they can still adhere to COVID-19 safety precautions, such as social distancing, by filling out their census forms in the safest ways possible," explained McClinton. "I want to make sure my constituents stay safe while at the same time benefit from the resources they deserve."

The Coalition of African Communities works to build a strong and inclusive African and Caribbean immigrant and refugee community with all nationalities by facilitating family access to health and social services, promoting economic development and advocating on issues of concern to African communities.