Expanded Census Survey could bring more accurate data to Vicksburg

VICKSBURG, Miss. by Alyssa Lick (VDN)— The U.S. Census Bureau is expanding its Pulse Survey to better reflect communities like Vicksburg, providing more real-time data.

The bureau announced Tuesday, April 15, it is increasing the number of households participating in its new Household Trends and Outlook Pulse Survey (HTOPS) to nearly 30,000 nationwide. That larger sample size means data could be broken down to better reflect what’s happening in smaller communities like Vicksburg.

The survey, known as HTOPS, began earlier this year and builds on the work of the Household Pulse Survey, or HPS, which started during the COVID-19 pandemic. Its goal is to quickly capture how events — from economic shifts to natural disasters — are affecting everyday life for American families.

What is HPS?
The Household Pulse Survey (HPS) was created to collect critical data during times of crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. At the time, in-person visits, call centers and data processing facilities were temporarily closed, limiting the Census Bureau’s ability to collect real-time information.

In response, a team within the bureau developed HPS as a rapid-response survey. Early topics focused on pandemic-related issues such as employment and income loss, housing and food insecurity, mental health, access to care and educational disruption.

What does this mean for Vicksburg?
For Vicksburg, HTOPS could mean more accurate and timely data on issues like housing, food security, employment, and education. The Census Bureau says the goal is to give communities tools to respond to challenges as they happen, rather than waiting months or years for traditional survey results.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau: “Your participation will help federal and state officials direct aid, assistance and support to the people and places that need it most. This survey will provide information that cannot be collected elsewhere. Your response is key.”

Currently, Warren County has 6,910 food insecure adults in our community and 2,135 employed adults aged 19-64 do not have healthcare coverage. In order for a family of 4 to survive , they must each earn $16.17 per hour at their jobs.

How do I know it’s the Census Bureau contacting me?

You may receive an invitation via email or text message. To verify the legitimacy of any contact, visit:
https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/surveyhelp/verify-a-survey.html

Who is selected, and how can I participate?

Addresses are randomly selected from more than 75,000 across the country. Only those who receive an invitation can complete the survey. The Census Bureau replenishes the HTOPS panel periodically, and your address may be chosen in a future round.

Is my information safe?

Yes. Data collected by the Census Bureau is protected under Title 13 of the U.S. Code, which guarantees confidentiality.

Questions or concerns?

Contact the Census Bureau at 1-888-595-1334. The HTOPS team is available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern time, or by email at addp.htops@census.gov.