Dear Neighbor,

Para ver este boletín electrónico en español, haga clic aquí.

Many of us are still adjusting to living in a world with limited personal contact with others. You’re not alone. As COVID-19 continues to spread through the United States, many state and federal government operations have moved online. This week, I want to remind you that you can respond to the Census from the safety of your home.

Census results help determine how billions of dollars will be distributed over the next ten years for critical public services and infrastructure. The COVID-19 pandemic has shown just how important these federal funds are, as they go to our hospitals and health care facilities on the front lines of this public health emergency. By taking three minutes to answer a few questions about yourself, you can help support our healthcare workers and essential services here in Florida for the next decade.

Only 52% of people in Florida’s 27^th district have participated so far, but I know we can do better. If you haven’t done so already, submit your response today: take the 2020 Census.

By law, your responses are kept strictly confidential. Your answers can only be used to produce statistics—they cannot be used against you in any way. The Census Bureau will never ask for Social Security number, bank account or credit card numbers, money or donations, or anything on behalf of a political party. The U.S. Census Bureau collects data from all foreign born who participate in its censuses and surveys, regardless of legal status. You can see a sample form from the Census Bureau here.

Responses can be submitted online, by phone or mail from the safety of your home. This is an opportunity to help your community get the resources it needs. Be sure to spread the word and remind your friends to complete the 2020 Census as soon as possible.

If you need assistance throughout this crisis, do not hesitate to reach out to my district office at (305) 668-2285. We are also updating our website daily with resources for you during this challenging time: shalala.house.gov.

Stay safe and healthy,