Crossroads' main food pantry is owned by the Women's Division of Global Ministries of the United Methodist Church. "They donate it to us rent-free and we pay for upkeep. Since both of us have a natural relationship with the general board, it makes sense to try to work together."

Bailey said because the UMCOR depot will draw volunteers from all over the country, "they could be engaged in work for both our operations when they're here." He said the agency may have been one reason that UMCOR chose Salt Lake City.

"We've been here 42 years, and we've developed a good reputation. Most people have a good opinion of the work we do. By coming in and being associated with us, it gives them a bit of a leg up, and I think it's good for both of us."

Bailey said were the depot to locate elsewhere, its operations would likely be supported solely by United Methodist volunteers. But in Utah, "people have a long history of working together on interfaith efforts because — aside from the LDS Church — there are not enough of us here to make much of an impact alone."

He's been encouraged that Latter-day Saints in recent years "have been more actively encouraged to work outside their own faith network. By making the decision to come here, (UMCOR) is trying to foster that interfaith cooperation. I know they're specifically interested in reaching out and having a productive partnership with LDS Church."

Dixon said he's well aware of the humanitarian arm of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, listing two recent cooperative efforts with the church in shipping supplies to Kenya and the Congo earlier this year. "In both cases, much of the material shipped through the foundation came from the LDS relief center.

"At other points in our history, we have had good relationships with them and hope to continue and build on that. We want to learn from them and build on that relationship, and find a way we can serve some humanitarian needs together."

Peter Evans, manager of field operations for LDS Welfare Services, said he's aware of several projects the two agencies have partnered on, and looks forward to meeting with UMCOR officials when they arrive in Utah.

"We know them well, they do great work. We don't know much yet about why they're coming here, but we certainly welcome them. We applaud all efforts to relieve suffering, help people stand on their feet and move forward. We look forward to working with them as we have with many other religious organizations that have outreach programs."

Evans said the LDS Church actively cultivates such relationships because "we can often enlarge our reach by partnering with other organizations. We couldn't do what we do without the assistance of others in many instances. ? By working together can bless a lot more lives."