This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2016, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
I was very dismayed by the letter written by Rosemary Holt regarding the homeless situation and the LDS Church because her criticisms are just not true! They have been more than generous contributing financially and in-kind to many nonprofits in our state.
We have many wonderful donors in our state — foundations, corporations, businesses, state, county, city governments, as well as individuals who have contributed greatly to the nonprofits who serve refugees, low-income and homeless people. We are very grateful to so many entities and people involved. The LDS Church is an integral part of that incredible team who have made it possible to provide the necessary services.
Although I'm a Presbyterian, I am in awe of what the LDS Church has accomplished worldwide with their humanitarian services that have helped millions of people as well as Utahns!
Personally, I have never seen the LDS Church discriminate against anyone in need, regardless of their beliefs, and I could not do half of what I do helping homeless individuals and families without their help. The problem I have with the LDS Church is that they "hide their light under a bushel," so many people are unaware of the great humanitarian services they donate on a daily basis!
Pamela Atkinson
Salt Lake City