New data shows Southwest Florida has one of the lowest census response rates in the state and this could be a devastating blow for the local economy.
Local organizations say Florida could lose millions if the COVID-19 pandemic causes a census undercount.
Back in 2010 Florida was ranked 3rd in the country for the number of people failing to complete the census.
Southwest Florida ranked amongst the lowest counted in the state.
“We missed 1.4 million people, that cost our state 20 billion dollars, ” said Susan Racher.
Susan Racher of Florida Counts, says the state is often overlooked because of its ever-changing population.
“We have significant population growth and 80 percent of that growth is immigration from other states and other countries, ” said Racher.
She stresses the importance of the census regardless of citizenship.
“It is heavily protected by law, whether they are documented undocumented you can comfortably complete the census, ” said Susan Racher.
It is crucial to make sure everyone is counted.
The census determines federal funding to build roads, bridges, schools and other aspects of our community.
The money is based on the number of people who complete the census.
“One person will bring in $14,500 in federal money to the state over the ten years between 2020 and 2030, ” said Susan Racher.
Zero dollars in statewide funding have been allocated to census outreach this year.
Experts worry the COVID-19 pandemic may cause a significant undercount.
Current numbers are lower than previous years:
- Collier County is at a 47.9% completion rate
- Glades County is at an alarming 26.4% completion rate
- Hendry County is at a 33.6% completion rate
- Lee County is at a 51.9%
Grassroots efforts have been put on hold.
“Much of the census outreach relies on the trusted messengers making person-to-person contact, ” said Racher.
Racher says organizations are now relying heavily on technology.
“Phone banking, contest on Facebook and virtual town halls, ” said Susan Racher.
For the first time ever you can choose to respond to the census online, by phone, or by mail.
Your response matters.
The Census deadline has been extended to October 31 in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Head to to complete the census form online.
