After many years of wishing and hoping, the Lacoochee-Trilby communty received news that grant funds are being set aside for a communtiy center in Stanely Park. Many individuals across the county have been working to bring services to the Lacoochee-Trilby area and are pleased that a significant step has been taken toward building a communty center. The Pasco County Library, with grants funds, has offered a variety  of programs to citizens in the Lacoochee-Trilby area. The Library has brought laptops with aircards to the Boys and Girls Club, Trilby Community Center, and other locations to provide citizens with access to  Access Florida (food stamps/medicaid), employment assistance, as well as other programs.  Once the communtiy center is built, the Pasco County Library is hoping to offer an array of library services there. For more informaiton regarding the funding for the new community center read the article in the St. Petersbrug Times - $300,000 grant set aside for community center in Lacoochee

Why should I fill out the census form?
Every ten years the government gathers informaiton from American residents through the census. This information helps the government and other agencies in a variety of ways. It determines the number of U.S. House Representatives that each state has. Many organizations like hospitals, job centers, and schools use this information to apply for funds to provide services to area residents. Also you are required to complete the form by law.


Can I fill out the Census form online?
Not yet, for more information go to http://2010.census.gov/2010census/how/interactive-form.php

How will I receive the census form?
In March of 2010, census forms will be delivered to every residence in the United States and Puerto Rico. When you receive yours, just answer the 10 short questions and then mail the form back in the postage-paid envelope provided. If you don't mail the form back, you may receive a visit from a census taker, who will ask you the questions from the form.


How do I know the person at my door is a real census worker? 
The Better Business Bureau offers this advice:
If a U.S. Census worker knocks on your door, they will have a badge, a handheld device, a Census Bureau canvas bag and a confidentiality notice. Ask to see their identification and their badge before answering their questions.  However, you should never invite anyone you don’t know into your home.

• Census workers are currently only knocking on doors to verify address information. Do not give your Social Security number, credit card or banking information to anyone, even if they claim they need it for the U.S. Census.  While the Census Bureau might ask for basic financial information, such as a salary range, it will not ask for Social Security, bank account or credit card numbers nor will employees solicit donations.

• Eventually, Census workers may contact you by telephone, mail or in person at home.  However, they will not contact you by e-mail, so be on the look out for e-mail scams impersonating the Census. Never click on a link or open any attachments in an e-mail that are supposedly from the U.S. Census Bureau.


What about my privacy?
All Census Bureau employees take the oath of nondisclosure and are sworn for life to protect the confidentiality of the data.  For more details- http://2010.census.gov/2010census/privacy/index.php


Remember you can pick up a census form and get more information at any of the Pasco County Library branches.

United Way of Pasco offers 2-1-1 service. If you dial 211, you can receive referrals to social service agencies in the Tampa Bay area. You can make an appointment for free tax assistance, find out where a local support group meets, or receive help with paying your utility bills.

They also have an online database that you can search for information on a wide variety of issues from abuse to local food banks.

What a resource!