During the past year, UC Santa Cruz has been working in partnership with local community leaders and organizations; local city and county governments; and the federal government to communicate the value of getting a "complete count" during this 2010 US Census. For those who have already filled out and returned your 2010 Census forms, we greatly appreciate your participation. For those who either have not returned or received your Census form, please read on.
Why It Is Important
Census data will provide state population counts and determine representation in the U.S. House of Representatives. Every year, the federal government distributes more than $400 billion to state, local and tribal governments based on census data. Data also will guide local decision-makers on where to build new schools, roads, hospitals and develop community programs that affect quality of life.
How College Students Are Counted
Depending on your living situation, students will participate differently:
. Students Living in University-Sponsored Group Quarters (either on or off campus): If a student (except those living in family student housing) lives in student housing, dormitory, residence hall, sorority or fraternity house, he or she should have received a 2010 Census form the week of April 5th 2010. These forms were distributed to each Resident Assistant (RA) who then delivers and collects the forms for each individual. If you have not received your form or need a replacement, students should contact their RA.
. Students Living Off-Campus in Private Residences: If a student lives off campus in a private residence, 2010 Census forms were already mailed to his/her house or apartment in March 2010. Please note that all students living at that address are considered one household, so the form should be completed with information about all the people living at that address. However, if you were not included where you live, you can file a Be Counted form, which is available at the Bay Tree Bookstore. Mail the completed form in the U.S. mail envelope provided.
. Living with parents or guardians: If a student commutes to school and resides full-time at his/her parents' or guardians' household, the student should be accounted for on his/her parents' or guardians' household form.
. Students Living in Family Student Housing On-Campus: All students in family student housing, should have received their forms in March 2010 through the US Postal Service. If you live in family student housing on-campus and have not received a form, call Marilyn Booth at the local US Census Office: (408) 792-6523. She will have a form sent to you.
. International students or not a U.S. citizen: Everyone in the United States must be counted. This includes people of all ages, races, ethnic groups, citizens and noncitizens.
More Information:
For more information, you can go to http://www.2010census.gov or visit a "Questionnaire Assistance Center" set up at various time and locations throughout Santa Cruz County. For specific times and locations of these centers, please go to:
http://2010.census.gov/2010census/take10map/bcqac-textview.php
Thank you.
