The response rate of Hawaii County residents to the U.S. Census, which is mandated by the U.S. Constitution, is less than 50% -- as of right now, 46.5%.  Why is it important?  The way money comes to Hawaii County, to our communities in Puna, Kohala, Ka'u, Hilo, Kona, everywhere--is determined by the population as determined by the Census.  That includes things like COVID-19 Pandemic Relief for businesses and individuals, as well as funding for schools, keiki programs, senior programs, and more.    Sharlette Poe with the Census tells us more.  BTW, next Sunday, Aug. 23,  Island Conversations features Hawaii County Mayor Candidate Ikaika Marzo; Sun. Aug. 30, it will be Mayor Candidate Mitch Roth. Air date:  Aug. 16, 2020