REGION — Census results shape the future of communities, as census data informs how billions of dollars in federal funds are distributed for health clinics, school lunch programs, disaster recovery initiatives, and other critical programs and services for the next 10 years. In short, making sure everyone is counted affects our financial future. 

As of August 17, the response rate in New York is 59.6 percent. In Sullivan County, the rate is 33.5 percent. Residents in Pennsylvania are fairing a little bit better; the commonwealth has an overall response rate of 66.8 percent, with Wayne County in the lead with 46 percent and Pike County not to far behind with 39.1 percent.

As of August 11, Census workers are visiting those who have not responded  through mail or online. This year, the window or collecting the count has been shortened by one month and will close at the end of September. Visit www.my2020census.gov for more information.