New Card Program Helps Residents Access City Resources

Story and Photos by Ivanna Washington Data News Weekly Contributor

Across this month, residents were able to attend several mobile pop-ups across the city, allowing them to apply for a new identification that will provide them access to multiple city resources that includes the New Orleans Recreation Department, and the New Orleans Public Library Card, among other services.

The new card falls under the Crescent City ID Program and officials hope it will provide more ease for residents to engage in the local economy and better utilize public resources.

“I’m excited to see the Crescent City ID become a reality. It’s opening up so many new possibilities for our residents,” said Crescent City ID Program Manager, Daisy Retes-Cabral at one of this month’s pop-up events.

“Beyond access to city services, the program connects people to local resources and allows them to enjoy their city like tourists with pride and ease,” she added.

The city announced the new identification in July and is bringing it to Community Centers this month and throughout the fall to encourage more residents to sign up for the cards. Across September, the pop-ups took place at the Rosa Keller Library on Broad Street, and the Tremé Recreation Center. Other pop-ups took place at Crescent Care on Elysian Fields Avenue and Bridge House Thrift Store on Earhart. On Thursday, Sept. 25th, the pop-up will come to the Algiers Regional Library on the West Bank and on Sept. 30th at Joe W. Brown Recreation Center.

The Crescent City Card is more than just for identification, it accesses discounts for local businesses who are city partners for the card. Some of the early businesses that have signed on include St. Noir Café, Melba’s Po’boy, the Prytania Theatre at Canal Place and JAMNOLA.

“This particular event is a city event for the public’s new City ID which is a really good thing,” said Tremé Recreation Center worker, Tommy Atlley at the mobile pop-up in September. “It helps out a lot of people who don’t have an ID at all so if they need medical attention or law enforcement, they have some type of identification on them,” he added.

Officials say residents can attend any of the mobile pop-ups as walk-ins, present their information and once inside, they are able to have their picture taken and the ID printed all in a short amount of time.

“The Crescent City ID helps to overcome barriers for those who have identification or lack identification,” said Kahlida Lloyd, the Director of the Office of Human Rights and Equity.

“It’s something for everybody and brings together a little pride and acknowledgement of being a New Orleanian,” Lloyd added.