Hundreds of locals were the first to take part in a new program Monday that issues ID cards to people without homes and families living in poverty.
They're called Clarity Cards and the idea is to streamline the system that provides services to people in need.
The cards are scannable so the holders will be able to more quickly access services like food pantries.
And the people running those services can monitor how many people are taking part, how often and where.
"Our intent is to help those in our community in need, to be able to access services more efficiently,” says Amy Roukie, Catholic Charities of Northern Nevada.
Today was the first day for people to get their cards. And there was a steady line all day starting bright and early at 7:30 a.m.
The Clarity Card system is similar to one used in Southern Nevada and organizers hope it will help them manage their resources and help them keep track of the needs of this population.
With the cards, holders can enroll in shelter programs and access services more easily without having to wait in line to check in.
And the new cardholders are looking forward to the change.
"It's going to make things, everything, better for all of us. For my family, my wife and I, and my doggies. It's going to help a lot,” says Bobby Mueller.
About 500 people got their cards today, but organizers expect to have about 20,000 people in the program.
The card system is paid for by grants and donations.
In order to issue as many cards as possible to people who need them, there are three locations where people can obtain a card during the week of September 22nd through 26th. Monday through Friday, people can visit St. Vincent's Dining Room at 325 Valley Road from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. or St. Vincent's Food Pantry at 500 East Fourth Street from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Cards will also be issued from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Tom Vetica Resource Center at 335 Record Street.
