Census 2020

Every 10 years, as mandated by the U.S. Constitution, the federal government undertakes a census count of the U.S. population to determine the allocation of seats held by each state in the House of Representatives. The next federal census is April 1, 2020.

A complete and accurate census count is essential for Watsonville and the well-being of our community. Watsonville could potentially lose millions of dollars in federal funding if we don't get a complete count.

Census forms will begin arriving in mid March 2020 and they should be returned no later than Census Day, April 1st, 2020. Responses to the census form should include everyone living at that address. There will be four ways to respond: via the internet, over the phone, by mail or in person.
Participation in the 2020 Census is easy, and important.
Every year, the federal government distributes more than $675 billion to state, local and tribal governments based on census data. Census data guides local planning decisions, including where to provide additional social services, build new roads, hospitals and schools, and where to locate job-training centers.

To see an exact breakdown of funding by programs (Head Start, SNAP, WIC, Section 8, Foster Care, Medicaid) for California,

please click here.

Will my information be kept confidential?

Yes. Under the law, Census data can only be used for statistical purposes. Title 13 of the U.S. Code requires respondent’s information to be kept confidential, and guarantees personal information will not be used against respondents in court or by a government agency.

Personal census information cannot be disclosed for 72 years (including names, addresses, and telephone numbers).

Census Bureau staff who have access to personal information are sworn for life to protect confidentiality, and are subject to a $250,000 fine and/or up to five years in federal prison for wrongful disclosure of information.

United States Census Bureau Information

Watsonville Census Tools and Resources

2020 Census Watsonvillle Complete Count Committee

The City of Watsonville's 2020 Census Complete Count Committee is responsible for developing and implementing a 2020 Census awareness campaign to encourage a response to the Census in Watsonville. A full and accurate count of Watsonville residents helps ensure that the City receives federal funding for transportation, housing assistance, and other needs. The Complete Count Committee will utilize local knowledge, influence, and resources to educate the community and promote the Census through locally based, targeted outreach efforts and will help the Census Bureau obtain the most accurate count of Watsonville residents in 2020 through partnerships with local government and community organizations.

The 2020 Census Complete Count Committee is composed of community partners in Watsonville, that bring a valuable perspective or expertise in reaching audiences. These members represent a broad spectrum of government and community leaders from education, business, healthcare, social services, and other community organizations.

Thank you to our Watsonville Complete Count Committee. We can't do this alone. Together we will make sure everyone in Watsonville is counted.