The 2010 Census is a count of everyone living in the United States and is mandated by the U.S. Constitution. The 2010 Census form is one of the shortest census forms in history. It asks 10 questions and takes about 10 minutes to complete.

What: The census is a count of everyone living in the United States.

Who: Everyone in the United States must be counted, all ages, races, ethnic groups, citizens and non-citizens.

When: Census Day in SA is April 1, 2010. All 2010 Census responses should represent the household as it exists on this day. More detailed socioeconomic information is collected annually from a relatively small percentage of the population through the American Community Survey (www.census.gov/acs).

Why: Participating in the census can impact your quality of life for the better. Every year, the federal government distributes more than $400 billion to state, local, and tribal governments based on census data. Census data also guides local decision-makers on where to build new roads, hospitals, child-care and senior centers, schools and more—including where to locate supermarkets, businesses, new housing and other facilities.

How: Census forms will be delivered or mailed to households in March 2010. Households should complete and mail back their form upon receipt. Some people in remote locations may be counted in person.

For more information contact the Census Local Office: 210-207-0230 or 210-792-8185 or visit the www.2010.census.gov/2010census