SWFL agencies bring chaplains on staff to offer support to first responders

First responders across the country face the devastating impact of suicide nationwide. Those numbers are rising.

For those on the frontlines, these are more than just statistics. In Englewood, Fire Chief Kevin Easton knows firsthand what it feels like to lose someone.

As a fire chief, what do you do when you see the 9% increase in service member suicides last year?

“It’s not even speakable to talk about some things you see. And we see people on their worst day, and we see them during their absolute worst moments,” said Easton.

Especially when those moments hit close to home?

“I was with John the day that he took his life, and it was. It’s a rough day for me, so I’m glad that Scott will be going with me down there,” said Easton.

Chief Kevin Easton says his solution to the problem is one man: Chaplain Scott Andrews.

“I have been to too many firefighter funerals, and too many of them where a firefighter took their own life, I don’t care to see it any longer, certainly not in our area,” said Easton.

“I’m most excited just about getting to know people before the crisis, and being a friend and a teammate before the crisis so that when the crisis hits, I’m there to support,” said Andrews.

Just as he does at church on Sunday, Chaplain Andrews is there to offer support.

“To come alongside, offer spiritual care and support, to walk with people through crisis, dealing with post-traumatic stress,” said Andrews.

“If they need it, and if they want it, then, then he’s there,” said Easton.

This is not just for the Englewood Fire Department but also for any person who comes across the worst day of their life and has to call for help.

“Should they encounter someone in the community that needs help, then I would be there,” said Andrews.

Last year, 523 service members died by suicide.

Here is a breakdown of the number of chaplains in each of our local agencies: Lee County Sheriff’s Office has 7, Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office has 4, and the Fort Myers Police Department has 4.

Don Neace is the Chaplain for Cape Coral Fire and one of three Cape Coral Police Chaplains.

Neace said he sees first responders at very intense moments.

“There have been occasions where, especially when there’s been a a death involved, that I would be called to the scene to help with the officers or the firefighters, who have had to pull a body, like drowning person, or situations that are very traumatic for them,” Neace said.

He’s not just a chaplain for the first responders but also is a resource for the community and the scenes the officers are called to.

“ I’ve been called on several occasions, I work with the victims advocates, quite often, to work with the families and to provide that spiritual counsel side. If they’re looking for, comfort and reassurance and help,” Neace said.