Not only does the Census help portion the House of Representatives and state legislative districts. The census allows the government to correctly distribute more than 300 billion dollars annually in federal funding. But, the census is bringing more than potential dollars to our area; it brings the possibility of part time jobs.

Census applicants were signing up in Headland's City Hall this morning to take their employment test. 

Russell Bryan, an applicant, explains "Car industry has somewhat taken a hit.. It can't support a lot of sales staff right now." Russell Bryan came to the Headland area with a job, but the recession leaves him with twins, a wife, and unemployed.  And he's not alone.

Pamela Jackson, another Applicant, adds, "I didn't have a job and the recession hit... I've been unemployed for a year and half." Pamela Jackson keeps up the search for employment. And both applicants hope after today they'll have a part time job.

Jackson continues, "Maybe it will be long enough so I can support my family atleast through the holidays or something." The job pays between eleven to twelve dollars an hour plus tax free gas mileage. An applicant has to contact the local census office, complete an application, pass the employment test, and undergo a background check.  The Census employment tests includes reading, math, following directions and map reading. A job with the Census helps the unemployed get back into the workforce and opens up opportunities for the wiregrass to receive much needed federal funding.

Jack Reublin, a Recruiting Assistant with the U.S. Census says, "I always equate--more federal dollars they receive the less taxes they'll have to pay." And hopefully we can count on Pamela and Russell to help us get there.

Jackson says, "I know if I do get the job.. I'll be excited."

Bryan concludes, "If I can be a part of bettering the community than that's what I want to do that's the reason I'm here."

For more information on how you can apply to work for the 2010 Census. If you're in the Henry County area, the next testing day is Tuesday in the Headland City Hall at 10 AM and in Houston County at 2 PM on Friday at Greater Beulah Baptist Church on Headland Avenue in Dothan.