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Not having the right documents like a birth certificate, state ID, or Social Security card can close doors to critical opportunities. Without them, it’s harder (or impossible) to apply for jobs, housing, healthcare, school, or public benefits. And while these papers may seem basic, replacing or securing them can be costly, time-consuming, and emotionally draining. If someone you care about is trying to get their documents in order, your support can make a huge difference. |
Disclaimer: We strive to keep the information on this page accurate and up to date. However, programs and requirements can change, and we may not always be aware of those changes immediately. If you notice any outdated or incorrect information, or if you have suggestions for additional resources we should include, please reach out to your community's Resources and Opportunities (R&O) manager to make them aware of the changes needed. |
| This article is organized to provide you with guidance to walk through the steps of the barrier removal process: Asking coaching questions, Taking steps to advocate for yourself or someone else, and Connecting with community resources. |
Foundational Resource Checklist
We strive to ensure young people can have access to all their important documents, which we call "Foundational Resources". Foundational documents are important because they serve as your core legal, financial, and identity records and without them, many essential parts of life become difficult or even impossible to access.
Birth Certificate |
☐ Locate original or certified copy ☐ Store in a safe place (fireproof box, folder, etc.) ☐ Order replacement if missing |
Social Security Card |
☐ Locate original card ☐ Memorize SSN (do not carry card daily) ☐ Request replacement if lost or damaged |
State ID / Driver’s License |
☐ Confirm ID is valid and not expired ☐ Update address if needed ☐ Renew before expiration date Click here for more information about how to obtain a state ID. |
Bank Account |
☐ Choose a bank or credit union ☐ Open checking account ☐ Open savings account ☐ Set up online banking access |
Resume |
☐ Gather work, volunteer, and education history ☐ Update resume with recent experience ☐ Save digital copy (Word & PDF) ☐ Print a few physical copies |
Health Insurance Card |
☐ Locate physical insurance card ☐ Keep digital copy or photo stored securely ☐ Update information if plan changes Click here for a link that has the information needed to apply for Medicaid |
What can I do if a young person has lost or is missing their foundational resources?
Ask Coaching Questions |
Seek Clarity:
- What document do you need a copy of?
- Why do you need a copy of this document?
- What is the fee for the document?
- By when do you need this document?
- What happened to the original document? Do you have a safe place to store it when you get a new copy?
Ask About Options:
- How much do you think you could afford to put towards the documents?
- Who have you asked for help?
- What have you tried so far?
- Have you been in this situation before? If so, how did you handle it?
- Do you know anyone who has been unable to afford to get their documents before? If so, how did you handle it?
- Do you have any friends or family who could lend you money?
- Have you tried asking if another document you do have could serve as a substitute?
Take Steps to Advocate |
- Ask if another document that you have could serve as a substitute for the document you don’t have.
Connect with Resources |
To access many vital documents, you may need other documents in order to show your identity. Please see the following list to review what additional documents you will need in order to replace the documents listed below.
Birth Certificate |
Documents You Need: -
How to Request:- Request Online: - once you place an order online you’ll be informed of how to send in required identify verification documents. Typically, you’ll have to copy them and mail them in with an identity verification document. Book an Appointment: - bring the identity verification documents with you to your appointment. |
Social Security Card |
Documents You Need:-
How to Request:-
Appointments are not necessary but are encouraged to avoid long wait times. Call the office to make an appointment. |
State ID |
Documents You Need:-
|
No Documents |
If you are missing most or all of the required documents for one or more vital document, use the following resource: Franciscan Center 101 W. 23rd St., Baltimore, MD 21218 Between 9:30 and 10 to meet with Identity Access Project |
Additional Ways to Address the Immediate Need
- Franciscan Center support with Birth Certificates and Maryland IDs: (410) 467-5340
- Paul’s Place (21223, 21230, 21201) at 410-625-0775
Look into options for replacing vital records
| If you've gone through all of the above steps in your relationship, you can apply to see if you qualify for additional financial assistance. |
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