Good Samaritan Program has new manager

Friday, Aug. 01, 2014

SALT LAKE CITY — Darren Williams became the program manager of the Good Samritan Program in January when Mark Wondergem stepped down as the director after 15 years. The title ‘director’ was changed to ‘program manager’ after consideration of the issue, said Williams. 

The Good Samaritan offers two volunteer positions: sack-lunch makers and door hosts. “We are in need of people who will be permanent sack-lunch makers on a regular basis and not once a week or once a month,” said Williams. “The lunches can be made early in the day for the day.”

The door host shifts are: 9 a.m. to noon, noon to 3 p.m., 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. 

“We don’t question anybody who comes to the door for a lunch,” said Williams. “It doesn’t make a difference; at some point everybody needs help.”

The Good Samaritan Program is now giving out more than 700 pounds of oranges and bananas a week, Williams said. “It is hard to keep up with the demand.”

The sack lunches contain a salted item, a sweet item, and a sandwich made of ham, tuna, turkey, chicken, sausage or peanut butter. 

“I’m cooking all the meat, except the ham,” said Williams. “During the winter months, hot cocoa is also served.”

Open 365 days a year, 11 hours a day

Serves an average of 300 sandwiches a day

Requires more than 200 volunteers to run the program

Launched a sock and travel-size toiletry item drive this month and also is in need of razors, toothpaste and tooth brushes

Donations, including excess garden fruits and vegetables can be dropped off at the Good Samaritan Program, 347 E. South Temple, Salt Lake City.