KANKAKEE, Ill. (July 6, 2020) – The City of Kankakee’s Economic and Community Development Agency (ECDA) was awarded $15,000 from the Mayoral Caucus to continue promoting the 2020 Census. As of this week, only 53-54 percent of residents have completed the census. This additional funding will be geared toward directly assisting residents during these last few months before the due date.

The census helps determine federal funding and grant support to different states and communities, and every resident can help shape the City of Kankakee for the next 10 years by responding. For those who have already completed their census, there are free yard signs available for pickup at the ECDA office during regular business hours.

“We need your help in encouraging people to take the Census, “says director Brewer-Watson.  “Pick up a yard sign and remind those around your neighborhood to get counted.”

“Getting full participation for an accurate census count is always a challenge, but it is especially challenging during a pandemic.  As a call to action, the City has been intentional about the placement of large banners in the community to remind residents to complete the 2020 Census.  Additionally, small yard signs are available and will be used to raise awareness on the importance of the census count.  Finally, a community outreach plan has been established and our team looks forward to working in the neighborhoods to complete an accurate count,” said Mayor Wells-Armstrong.

The ECDA will also be hosting a table at the Kankakee Farmers’ Market on Saturday, July 18, 2020 from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. with free 2020 Census swag, yard signs and information on ECDA programs. The ECDA office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and is located at 200 E. Court Street Suite 410, Kankakee, Illinois, 60901.

 

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About the 2020 Census:

The 2020 Census counts every person living in the United States and five U.S. territories. In mid-March, homes across the country began receiving invitations to complete the 2020 Census. Responding to the census is not only your civic duty; it also affects the amount of funding your community receives, how your community plans for the future, and your representation in government. (From the U.S. Bureau Census website, www.2020census.gov) The 2020 Census will determine how much Kankakee will receive in federal funding to continue city services such as its housing programs, public service funding initiatives, blight reduction efforts, and other community development programs.  The Census also determines funding for the local school district, libraries, and several workforce programs. 

About the Economic and Community Development Agency (ECDA):

The Kankakee Economic and Community Development (ECDA) is a local government agency whose mission is to improve the lives of Kankakee residents and enhance the economic vitality of communities through housing, economic development and community development. The ECDA administers programs that serve the neighborhoods and residents of the City of Kankakee provided by federal, state and local funding. For more information, contact ECDA at 815-933-0506, Monday – Friday between 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

About the City of Kankakee, Illinois:

The City of Kankakee is dedicated to protecting, building and nurturing the community while enhancing lives. We are a historic, vibrant and active riverfront community. We continue to transform into an extraordinary place to dream, grow and thrive. Embracing our diversity, we strive to be progressive, inclusive and innovative. For more information on the City of Kankakee, please visit the website at www.citykankakee-il.gov.

 

Download the Press Release - ECDA Awarded Additional $15,000 Grant for 2020 Census