SPOKANE — About 200 people lined up outside the Spokane Public Library Tuesday for free ID replacements and other resources, providing year-round help for those who need assistance beyond the annual Spokane Homeless Connect event.
Once a year, Spokane Homeless Connect helps give free resources to thousands, but for those who need help year-round, there are other opportunities, like Tuesday’s event at the downtown library.
The Spokane Public Library hosted a “Replacement ID and Resource Fair”, giving free Washington ID’s to those who were low – income qualifying or experiencing homelessness.
The Department of Licensing staff setting up their equipment on the library’s first floor.
Jordan Hilker, Spokane Public Library’s safety and environment manager, explained why having proper identification is crucial for people experiencing homelessness.
“To access almost any service, you need an ID. So, for folks struggling to get that, you know, trying to get into housing or treatment or employment or anything, if they don’t have an ID, that’s a major barrier,” Hilker said.
Joshua Brandon, who has been living on the streets for the past five years, was in need of an ID renewal before Tuesday’s event.
“I didn’t think being on the streets would be tough at all. But then once you get out there, it’s a whole other world,” Brandon said.
Sabrina Wallace also received an ID replacement after losing hers when she moved to Spokane a couple months ago.
“If you’re needing help, this would be the best place to come. Especially if you need an ID or just any, like, medical help. This is the best place,” Wallace said.
People were also able to renew their driver’s licenses at the event.
There were also booths set up with local resources for attendees to visit, like “Our Place” a food, hygiene, and clothing bank. Another was “Boulder”, an online mental health and addiction counseling resource.
For those who would like to attend a similar event, “Spokane Valley Connect” will be hosted at Opportunity Presbyterian Church this Friday from 12 to 4 p.m.
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