Maine

Results of the U.S. 2020 Census will influence individuals, communities, governments, for-profit entities, and nonprofit organizations throughout the next decade. Data obtained will inform decision makers in all sectors and lead to allocation of political power and financial resources. If the data are wrong, there will be inequitable distribution of resources for basic community needs, such as education, food and income security, health care, housing, transportation, and much more. The allocation of $600 billion in federal funds hinges annually on the decennial data, including funding for state and local governments, as well as for nonprofits to deliver services to individuals and communities.

Advocating for a fair and accurate census count is a critical equity strategy. Historically, the census has missed or under-counted disproportionate numbers of racial minorities, immigrants, young children, and economically disadvantaged individuals, leading to inequality in political power and less access to public funding and private investment for these communities. The MPC’s Advocacy Committee recently hosted a webinar on the 2020 Census in Maine and why you should be involved.

This is a two page brief about counting young children in Maine and how the census affects funding for critical programs for children and families.