Remember that feeling when you first got your driver license? A feeling of independence,and accomplishment? Most people tend to forget about their driver license or ID card once it is in the wallet or purse. 

Unfortunately, there is a segment of our community that realizes how important these cards can be. Individuals experiencing instability or homelessness need to be able to show an ID card to get the services and employment opportunities to get off the streets. 

Well, a new partnership between the Homeless ID Project and the Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division is the latest way MVD is working to help those in need get back those feelings.

Clients at the Human Services Campus near downtown Phoenix can get replacement state-issued IDs without having to travel several miles to the nearest MVD office. The campus office is set up with the computer equipment, printer and scanner, and camera. 

“This is another great opportunity where MVD can serve the community in ways previously not possible,” said Eric Jorgensen, ADOT Motor Vehicle Division Director. “This partnership is a first step in using technology to expand our reach and get services to the place they are needed at the moment our customers need them.”

Homeless ID Project’s Director of Programs, Eric Ortega, added that, “Providing services to our clients experiencing homelessness in our office and meeting them where they’re at will make an enormously positive difference in obtaining identification. This will cut out the bus trips and waiting in the extreme summer heat as well as making it easier for the most vulnerable amongst the vulnerable to be assisted without the fear they can’t make it to an MVD office on their own. We are so appreciative to the MVD for making this happen and we know it will change our clients’ lives for the better.”

MVD teams also volunteer across the state at community events like Project Connect and Veteran StandDowns to help with ID services to ensure people are able to get a valid ID, driver license, motor vehicle records, renewals, reinstatements and even road tests, where possible. 

“You hear many say, ‘Now that I have my driver license back I can get a job, and with a job I will not be homeless,’” said Lezlie Jo Perkins, Northwest Phoenix MVD Office Manager.

Through these efforts, more people get to, once again, experience the feeling of pride when holding the license or ID card and be connected to the vital assistance needed so they have a place to call home. 

More information about these events is available at the Arizona Housing Coalition website and the Valley of the Sun United Way website.

 

 

 

 

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