On Sabbath November 26, 2011, approximately 15-20 volunteers from Wasatch Hills SDA Church met on the west side of Pioneer Park to serve the homeless and needy.  We passed out backpacks, clothing, hot chocolate, cookies, Bibles, and boots, just to mention some of the things we were able to provide.

ICOR is Inner City Out Reach whose purpose is to serve the homeless, needy and underprivileged people of downtown Salt Lake City.  It began out of a desire by Steve Binder to help and serve those in need.   Through the years, it has grown from a few tables serving approximately 25 people out of the back of cars to many tables full of clothes, blankets, backpacks, bathroom necessities, books and Bibles,  hot chocolate, lunches, cookies, water and snacks transported by the ICOR truck.  Our affiliated school - Summit Christian Academy  - has worked to make lunches and distributed them at the park.  Members have obtained donations from various local companies such as the time Great Harvest donated bread and members made and served more than 90 sandwiches to the hungry visitors.  Families have made cookies and the children pass them out among the homeless.  There are endless opportunities to witness, encourage and pray with those present.

The wonderful people that we serve find themselves in difficult situations.   However, their ready smiles, warm handshakes, hugs, and heartfelt “thank-you”s stay with the volunteer long after the day is through.   It seems that volunteering for ICOR helps and encourages us as much as we help and encourage those we serve.

We welcome anyone to support ICOR in any way you are impressed.  ICOR accepts monetary donations.  We then shop for the items that are most needed.  The people are so grateful for donations of backpacks, coats, hats, mittens, socks, long underwear,  and clothing of all kinds.  We have seen an increase in the number of women, children and families on the street, so we can certainly use items for those as well.   Volunteers are always needed to help sort the clothing contributions.  You are welcome to join us as we go out to serve the homeless and needy of Salt Lake City, but most of all, ICOR needs help by contributing cash, food, water bottles, cups, clothing (new or used), backpacks (especially needed) or anything else that you think the people could use.