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: the 13th juror

You won't believe this took 14 months

Today's mail contained a wonderful surprise -- a birth certificate for one of my homeless clients.

You might think that ordering a birth certificate is no big deal. But most states require you to present a photo ID to get your birth certificate. And, of course, you need a birth certificate* to get a Florida ID card.

I first ordered Derrick's** birth certificate from the state of Illinois in January 2008. That's 14 months ago. I've lost count of how many times we've sent in different applications, with different supporting documentation. At this point, I'm not even exactly sure what worked.

What I do know is that on Thursday, we'll get Derrick a Florida ID card. And then he'll be able to get a real job. He's been working out of the labor pool for several years (he signed up there before he lost his ID) and has been offered a full-time job ... but he needs an ID be hired.

If you want to help, send us $10 to pay for an ID card for Derrick or someone else who needs help. (There's a donation button on the right-hand side of this page.) If you're in the Orlando area, volunteer for IDignity. The next event is Thursday, March 26.
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* Or a valid United States passport or a certificate of naturalization, for U.S. citizens, or a green card or other immigration documents, for non-citizens.
** Not his real name.

Full post as published by the 13th juror on March 24, 2009 (boomark / email).