Census takers in Michigan say they’ll focus largely on underserved communities that are historically difficult to count.
The census determines federal funding for programs from education to infrastructure. Officials say 10 Michigan counties are most at risk of being undercounted, including Ingham, Washtenaw and Wayne.
Rep. Tyrone Carter (D-Detroit) says people often don’t respond to the census because they don’t feel their government works for them.
“So, if your community floods, where do you think money is going to come from, FEMA?” Carter asks. “Where does FEMA come from? The federal government. Where does that come from? (It’s from) you filling out your census.”
The Michigan Nonprofit Association is poised to take a lead role in reaching out to underrepresented groups.
Director Donna Murray-Brown says nonprofits that provide vital services already have the trust of their clients and can encourage them towards civic participation.
