Cephas, Hughes and Jones team up to help get Philly counted, improve response rate

With a clear understanding of the importance of being counted, state Rep. Morgan Cephas is ramping up her efforts to improve Philadelphia's response rate to the 2020 Census.

"With Philadelphia's response rate hovering just above 55%, we must act now to sound the alarm to our neighbors about not only filling out the census but making sure they understand why being counted is so critical to the 192nd Legislative District and the city of Philadelphia," explained Cephas, D-Phila. "This is about securing federal funds and investing in our priorities, like education, health care and assistance programs, while ensuring our neighborhoods are represented fairly in Harrisburg and Washington."

Cephas teamed up with state Sen. Vincent Hughes and city Councilmember Curtis Jones Jr. along with Philly Counts and the U.S. Census Bureau this past Saturday at Overbrook Plaza to assist people in completing the 2020 Census.

"We must work together on all levels of government to capitalize on this opportunity to strengthen our communities, move our neighborhoods forward and put people first because this chance won't come for another 10 years," said Cephas. 

Cephas added this event would not have been possible without:

  • Absalom Jones Foundation: donated masks to distribute.
  • SHARE Food Program and Overbrook West Neighbors, Hestonville Civic Association: handed out 250 boxes food.
  • Shred It: helped participants safely discard a total of 8,000 pounds of personal documents.
  • Gas It Up: provided free fuel vouchers.

Members of the Service Employees International Union also attended.