Volunteer chaplains for the Post Falls Police Department have made it their mission to care, and to date have helped talk nearly 100 people out of contemplating suicide.

They work in a state with one of the highest suicide rates in the country, in a county where it's among the worst in the state.

Chaplain Dan Lynch was a San Francisco police officer for 16 years and now approaches each person with one thing in mind: "We have hope. We are offering them hope. That's immense."

That is what all four chaplains carry with them, the ability to care for everyone as they respond to two sometimes as many as four people thinking about suicide a week.

"Listening is hugely important. Often times people thinking of taking their own life are deeply hurting," said Chaplain Doug Waltar. 

They talk to people over the phone, drop off a packet with local resources, or pay a visit. In the last nine months, the chaplains have responded to 97 calls. None of the people they have talked to have taken their lives.

The chaplains have been trying to figure out what it is about the program that works so well.

"We came to the conclusion that people will not take their own life if they believe even one person cares," said Chaplain Lynch.

They also help families who lost a loved one and want people to know they aren't alone.

"It isn't that it's something wonderful we thought of. It is something wonderful that works," said Chaplain Lynch.

You can contact the chaplains at (208) 773 3517; for more information see the Chaplains Program section of the Post Falls Police Department website.