Wake County to recognize alternative form of ID for immigrants, refugees

The program is meant to grow trust between the Hispanic community and law enforcement.

Schools, doctors offices and hospitals all require identification, something that many international people say they don't have. For example, people who are from another country and living in North Carolina may struggle to apply for a driver's license because they cannot supply the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles with the proper documentation.

While the Faith Action ID does not replace a driver's license, it can help law enforcement and healthcare systems identify new immigrants and refugees.

"As you know, the immigrants that come to this country, aren't able to get an ID for one reason or another," according to Pablo Escobar, clinic director of Alliance Medical Ministry said. "The Faith ID is going to be able to fill that very necessary need."

Mercy Villegas moved to the U.S from El Salvador 10 years ago. Before Wake County recongized the Faith Action ID card, she was unable to attend her son's school events because she didn't have the proper form of identification.

"The ID makes me a better mom, With this ID, I can be an active parent in their education and during after school activities," Villegas said.

Villegas, along with thousands of others in Wake County with no proper ID, will now be able to submit documents for verification. After a few days, their Faith ID card will arrive by mail, regardless of immigration status.

Wake County Sheriff Gerald Baker said that this program will help build trust between his office and the Hispanic community.

"There were communication barriers and a feeling of being reluctant to trust law enforcement, for many, many reasons," Baker said.

The Faith ID is accepted by local officials in nine other counties across North Carolina.

"This ID shows we are part of the community, and we feel much safer with law enforcement and other agencies," Villegas said.