Governor Rell: Census Forms Available

for P.O. Box Holders at Local Census Centers

Local Help Available at www.ct.gov/census2010

Or call toll-free 1-866-872-6868

Governor M. Jodi Rell today is reminding all Connecticut residents who have received a U.S. Census form to mail them back as soon as possible. The Governor also noted that because the Census Bureau does not mail questionnaires to P.O. boxes, residents who use them have options where they can receive their questionnaires.

 “Many state residents, particularly those who live in rural towns, have post office boxes and have not received the initial Census mailing. We want them to know they are not forgotten and their voice matters,” Governor Rell said. “An accurate count for the 2010 Census is essential for every resident in Connecticut.”

The Governor said the Census Bureau counts people where they live and sleep, so it must link each form to a physical location.  Because P.O. boxes are not tied to specific housing units, the Census Bureau cannot use them to send the brief questionnaires to the actual house or apartment. Instead, P.O. box holders can get forms at their local Census Bureau Questionnaire Assistance Center. Census Bureau staff can deliver a form to the home or apartment or interview the resident in person.

Those who are still waiting for the form or know you will be unavailable for a face-to-face visit with a Census representative, visit  www.ct.gov/census2010 for more information.  Governor Rell noted that if the forms are not received and recorded by the U.S. Census within the next few weeks, then those homes will get a visit from a Census worker.

“For those who have received forms, it is important they fill them out and return them today,” Governor Rell said.  “This is our opportunity to ensure that Connecticut voices are heard in Washington and that federal funds for transportation, health  care and education continue to make their way into our communities. It only takes a few minutes, so please fill out your form and mail it back now.”

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