Census 2000 will be the first census of the new century and the data collected will be used for the next decade. To get the numbers right, Pinecrest residents must take part.

The decennial census count is mandated by the U.S. Constitution and every man, woman and child living in this country is called upon to participate. There are no barriers due to education, background, citizenship, income or heritage. To encourage participation, census forms are available in six languages with assistance guides available in 49 languages. The census has been described by Dr. Kenneth Prewitt, the director of the U.S. Census Bureau, as " one of the most democratic events we undertake in this country."

One of the first things we learn about the census is that it shows us how many people live in the United States, Puerto Rico and the island areas. But there is a lot more to this process than merely counting heads. The census is the cornerstone of knowledge about our community and nation.

* Census numbers help determine how communities throughout the United States get their fair share of more than $185 billion in federal funds annually
* Census numbers make sure that various populations identified for recognition by federal, state and local programs have an opportunity to be served fully. 
* Census numbers are used to decide how many seats in the U.S. House of Representatives go to each state to ensure that everyone is fairly represented in Congress. Census data also is used for determining voting districts at the state and local level to help maintain our democratic political system based on the principle of one person, one vote.

And, just as important, Census 2000 is about civic renewal and civic pride. It is a common activity in which everyone residing in the United States can participate. It unites members of our community for a renewal of civic commitment and can serve as a rallying point for all of us to do something that helps ourselves, our families, our community and our nation. Furthermore, it offers each of us the opportunity to demonstrate pride in our culture, our community and our contributions to this society.

We can all be certain that the information we provide is held in the strictest confidence. Federal law protects the confidentiality of the data collected by the U.S. Census Bureau and it cannot be divulged to anyone for any reason for 72 years. High-level security measures and the requirement that every employee swear an oath to keep information confidential also protect the privacy of census data. Employees face harsh penalties for violating the law or their oaths.

Forms will begin arriving in the mail on or about April 1, 2000. Please take a few minutes to fill out the form and mail it back to Census 2000. This is our future. Don't leave it blank!

If you have questions, please call 305-234-2121.