Houston Complete Count — making sure our community is seen

The census determines billions in funding for Houston schools, roads, hospitals, and services. An undercount means our neighborhoods lose resources. The Houston Complete Count campaign is making sure every neighbor is counted — especially in historically undercounted communities like Third Ward, Gulfton, and Greenspoint.

When families in Third Ward, Gulfton, and Greenspoint get missed in the census, our whole city loses millions in federal funding. The Houston Complete Count campaign works with trusted neighborhood organizations to make sure every person gets counted in the 2020 census.

Census numbers decide how $1.5 trillion gets divided up each year across the country. Houston depends on this money for SNAP benefits, Medicaid, free school lunches, highway repairs, and affordable housing programs. Missing just one person means losing about $1,800 per year for ten years.

Some neighbors get overlooked more than others. Renters, immigrants, young children, and communities of color are often undercounted. Houston neighborhoods like Third Ward, Gulfton, Greenspoint, and Alief have had some of the lowest response rates in past counts.

The Houston Complete Count Committee partners with organizations people already know and trust. BakerRipley, the Houston Food Bank, and dozens of local churches serve as census help centers. These places have staff who speak multiple languages and understand our communities.

Census forms take about 10 minutes to fill out. People can complete them online, by phone, or on paper. The questions ask basic information like how many people live in each home and their ages. Personal details like Social Security numbers and immigration status are not required.

Community members can find their nearest census assistance center by calling BakerRipley at 713-273-3801. Walk-in help is available during regular business hours, and all assistance is free.