The County of San Mateo is committed to ensuring an accurate and complete count of ALL residents. We are collaborating with all levels of government: cities, surrounding counties, State and Federal, as well as community-based organizations and county residents.
Local Update of Census Address
In Summer 2018, we collectively submitted over 30,000 updated mailing addresses to the U.S. Census Bureau, so all San Mateo County residents will get the information about how to participate in the census.
Research shows that one-third of the undercount of low-income immigrants and households of color is due to gaps in the Census Bureau's address list. If an address is not on the list, the Census Bureau does not know to contact that household, to attempt to count it, or even that it was missed. Read more in our final report, or visit the Census Bureau's page Local Update of Census Addresses.
Engagement of Local Leaders
In December, 2018: Launched the Census Steering Committee of local government leaders to provide guidance and support for county-wide census efforts.
In January, 2019: Launched Census Complete Count Committee of diverse stakeholders across sectors to provide leadership and coordination for census outreach across San Mateo County.
From March - August 2019: Complete Count Committee members led Strategy Work Groups to develop localized strategies, messaging, and tools for encouraging and supporting residents to participate in Census 2020.
Outreach Through Trusted Community Organizations
In June 2019, we piloted a Census Ambassador Program with the San Mateo Adult School. Census Ambassadors are volunteers working with community organizations that are trained to educate fellow residents about Census 2020 and encourage participation. Learn more about the pilot program here.
In July 2019, we released our first Request for Proposal, which included the formation of Community Action Teams in areas of the county that are expected to be
based on
. These teams will work together to educate, motivate, and activate residents to participate in Census 2020. Awardees will be announced shortly.
In September 2019, we released our second Request for Proposals for outreach projects to be implemented by local, trusted community groups to encourage Census 2020 participation. Awardees will be announced in November.
Support for Census 2020 Completion
In July 2019, we released our first Request for Proposal, which included hosting Questionnaire Assistance Centers (QAC) across the county. These centers will provide digital, language, and disability support to residents.
Additionally, we will work with partners to host Questionnaire Assistance Kiosks (QAK) in community venues to activate census complete. If you would like to host a QAK, or to find out more information, please click here.