The Census impacts funding decisions for hundreds of programs funded by the government. The more accurate the Census count is, the more likely funds will be allocated to much-needed programs. CVIIC is working to identify housing in Stockton not identified by the government to be included in the Census. With a team of six, they completed 12 long, hot days of canvassing and found 604 unconventional housing units. The diverse team members included:
Seng, who is originally from Cambodia and moved to the United States four years ago. He hopes to become a citizen as soon as he is eligible and has a background implementing literacy and health programs in Cambodia.
Nick, who has an entrepreneurial streak and wants to set up a canvassing business for political campaigns.
Clifton, a Mid-westerner who recently moved to Stockton from Granada. There, he was a permaculturalist exploring alternative economic models of living.
Masiah, who just graduated high school and is a track star. After canvassing for five hours each day, she would go to track practice.
Alejandra, a recent high school graduate, is attending summer school at a community college and is trying to figure out what to major in. She is leaning toward nursing.
James, a community college student who plans to transfer to a four -year college. He is from South Stockton and has a desire to improve conditions in his neighborhood.