In February 2013, the Yakima Police Department decided to have a more visible face with our Police Chaplain Unit. The police department has had chaplains within the department for decades, but typically they were a silent presence within the department. The chaplains also served our community through contact for death notifications, comfort and care, as well as spiritual support if needed. We are grateful for those who came before us and provided the support, smiles and encouragement we needed.
The Yakima Police Chaplain Unit currently has three chaplains: Kent Roberts, Rob Broussard and Elaine Gonzalez. Each one brings a unique skill set to the men and women who serve the police department and our great city. Our purpose is to support, educate, encourage and show appreciation to our first responders as they perform their duties. We also look for ways to assist Yakima Police to uniquely engage with and support adults and children in our community.
Gonzalez, a retired Yakima Police Officer oversees the program and Pastor Rob Broussard is the pastor of Terrace Heights Baptist Church.
“A police officer strives to bring peace to the community. We strive to bring peace to their soul.”