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Chaplain Program

Four members of East Pierce Fire & Rescue's Chaplain Program stand outside the Administrative Headquarters building in Bonney Lake.
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Supporting Our Community Through Difficult Moments

For more than 20 years, East Pierce Fire & Rescue has been part of the Tacoma-Pierce County Chaplain Network, helping ensure compassionate support is available when it is needed most.

East Pierce Fire & Rescue’s Chaplain Program provides emotional, practical, and spiritual support to firefighters, their families, and members of our community during times of crisis.

Our chaplains respond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to assist people facing some of life’s most difficult moments. Whether supporting a family after a traumatic incident, helping first responders following a critical event, or providing comfort after a loss, chaplains are there to offer care, compassion, and support.

We serve all people regardless of faith, background, or beliefs.

What Does a Chaplain Do?

Chaplains help individuals and families navigate the aftermath of traumatic events by providing emotional support, practical assistance, and connections to additional resources.

Chaplains may assist with:

  • Natural disasters
  • Serious medical emergencies and cardiac arrest incidents
  • Fatal motor vehicle collisions
  • Death notifications
  • Line-of-duty injuries or fatalities
  • Critical incidents affecting community members
  • Peer support and Critical Incident Stress Management
  • Weddings and funerals
  • Community events and outreach

Chaplains also help individuals connect with their support network by contacting family members, friends, faith communities, or other resources that may be helpful during a difficult time.

Supporting First Responders

In addition to serving the public, chaplains provide support for East Pierce Fire & Rescue personnel and their families.

The nature of emergency response can expose firefighters and paramedics to challenging and traumatic situations. Chaplains are available to provide care, support, and resources following critical incidents.

What to Expect from a Chaplain

Many people are surprised to learn that chaplains provide support to people of all faiths, backgrounds, and beliefs.

Our chaplains are not on scene to preach or proselytize. Their primary role is to provide compassionate support during a crisis and help connect individuals and families with resources for ongoing care.

If spiritual support is requested, chaplains are happy to provide it.

Become a Public Safety Chaplain

East Pierce Fire & Rescue currently has five chaplains and is seeking additional volunteers to help provide around-the-clock coverage for our community and personnel.

Public safety chaplains come from many different backgrounds. You do not need to be a pastor to serve in this role. The most important qualities are compassion, a desire to serve others, and a willingness to be present with people during difficult moments.

Helpful areas of knowledge include:

  • Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM)
  • Mental Health First Aid
  • Crisis intervention and recovery support
  • Grief and trauma support

If you feel called to serve as a Public Safety Chaplain or would like to learn more about the program, please contact our Crisis Intervention Coordinator.

Lance Schinkal
Crisis Intervention Coordinator
Phone: (253) 863-1800
Email: lschinkal@eastpiercefire.org