Local event helps members of the Latino community obtain alternative identification

Local organization FaithAction is holding events to help those who don't have documentation to get identification. Community members say this helps them access their medication and address safety concerns. 

At a recent event, Iglesia Cristiana Sin Fronteras opened its doors for people in the community to obtain or renew their FaithAction ID cards. The ID isn't issued by the state. It's an initiative by the local group FaithAction and is accepted by specific government agencies in at least 10 counties in North Carolina, including Guilford, Alamance, and Forsyth.

The ID has many benefits but one of the most important is that it's accepted at local pharmacies because of a partnership with Atrium Health and Novant Health. 

For Paula Vargas Miranda, the identification has been a lifeline. After learning she had cancer, she was terrified of not being able to pick up her prescription due to lack of documentation. During a cancer consultation, a representative told her about FaithAction ID.  

“I can use it at the doctor, at the hospital, when police officers stop me,” explains Vargas Miranda. “If I want to enroll my kids in school, it helps me with all of that.”

FaithAction charges a $10 fee for the ID, and requires proof of name, address, and date of birth. These events require reservation due to COVID and happen every two to three months. Vaccinations and food are also available at most sites. 

This story was produced by a partnership between WFDD and La Noticia. You can read this story in Spanish at La Noticia.

Eileen Rodriguez is a reporter for both WFDD and La Noticia through Report for America, where she covers COVID-19's impact in the Latino Communities.

Periodista de La Noticia y 88.5 WFDD, Eileen Rodríguez reporta el impacto de COVID-19 en la comunidad Latina en Carolina del Norte. Rodríguez es miembro del cuerpo de periodistas de Report for America 2021-2022