A coalition of community organizations, local leaders, service providers, and public institutions are supporting the creation of a Cuyahoga County photo ID. The idea is to provide a local, secure, photographic identification card that county residents can obtain even if they do not currently have other forms of ID. Local ID programs already exist in New York City, Chicago, Detroit, and Cincinnati, and have proven to be effective tools for helping residents access essential services. The ID can verify identity in interactions with law enforcement or government agencies, and potentially open a bank account. It can also serve as a crucial first step toward long-term stability for individuals returning from incarceration.