A photo ID is needed for many basic things in life. It is required to apply for jobs, open a back account, get housing, accessing healthcare and support services, and even using some food pantries. In some cases, it is also needed to buy certain over-the-counter medicines when some is sick and just trying to take care of their health. Without an ID, even basic needs and opportunities become harder to access. For example, someone might finally get a job interview, but can not finish the hiring process because they don't have identification.
The problem is that people experiencing homelessness are more likely to lose their ID. When someone is moving around often, carrying all their belongings, or dealing with unsafe situations, important documents can easily get lost, stolen, or damaged. Even if they try to replace it, it is not easy. It can cost money, take time, and require other documents they may not have like SSN, address, etc. This makes it hard to start over.
Another issue is that many systems assume everyone already has an ID and stable housing.When someone doesn't, it can feel like they are being left out or ignored by the system just because they are HOMELESS. It is not just a card, it is something that affects access to opportunities and basic support.
The next time you use your ID, think about how much it allows you to do without you even noticing. For someone experiencing homelessness, not having one can mean missing out on work, housing, food, healthcare, and even simple things like medicine. Something so small can have a big impact on someone's life.
Resources that can be helpful: the barriers people face when getting identification.
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