Census 2020 – Now more than ever, New Mexico needs a complete count

As the month opens to extended restrictions that ask New Mexicans to stay home and maximize social distancing, it is difficult to shift our focus and remember that April 1, 2020 is also Census Day. While completing the census may seem insignificant in comparison to the dramatic changes we are all experiencing now, it is actually one of the most important things we can do to protect ourselves from the broader impact of the COVID-19 virus, which will extend far beyond the current moment of crisis. Numbers collected right now, from the census forms that we complete, will be used to determine funding for critical educational, health, and supplemental assistance programs for the next 10 years. With unemployment increases and economic declines projected nationally for the years following the current pandemic, we will depend on these programs more than ever to help us through the extended economic recovery period ahead. Our census numbers will also be used to determine funding for the rural health clinics that offer the first line of defense against this and any future public health threats.  With so much at stake, we need a full, complete census count of all New Mexicans - now more than ever. Complete your census form. If you need help, go to the icountnm website or call 1-844-330- 2020.