Timeline For Counting Homeless For 2020 Census Reset

Homeless people will still be counted in the 2020 Census, despite delays due to the pandemic. 

Originally, enumerators with the U.S. Census Bureau had planned to count people experiencing homelessness on March 30^th through April 1^st. But health and safety concerns halted those plans.

Now census takers will count the unhoused where they’re staying between September 22^nd and September 24^th.  The 3-day enumeration model began in 2000.

Credit Brian Bull / KLCC

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KLCC

Misty Slater is a spokesperson for the U.S. Census Bureau in Oregon, Idaho, and Nevada.

“We got to soup kitchens, or possibly where people like to sleep outdoors like under bridges, all-night businesses such as transit stations, or 24-hour laundromats," Slater explains.  "That way we can get an accurate count.”

An accurate count means more federal dollars to fund programs and services for the homeless.

Slater adds Census takers will follow the latest public health guidance regarding the use of personal protective equipment and social distancing.

Area Census Offices in Eugene, Salem, and Portland are all now re-opened.

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