SALT LAKE CITY -- The state is creating a new office for faith-based organizations.

The Utah Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives will be administered under the state Division of Housing and Community Development, according to a release Friday from the Department of Community and Culture.

"Many faith-based and nonprofit organizations lack access to information about federal, state and local funding," said Gordon Walker, division director at the Division of Housing and Community Development.

The office was organized to make it easier for faith-based and community organizations compete for public funding, encourage cooperation between such organizations and public agencies.

"We need to leverage the talent, commitment and resources of all service groups to improve the impact and effectiveness of social services for Utahns in need," Walker said.

The office will also coordinate with President Bush's Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives, according to the release.

This story appeared in The Daily Herald on page D2.