If you have knowledge of an inmate who is suicidal, contact The RI Department of Corrections. Look under Additional Frequently Asked Questions: Concern for Inmates After Hours: click here.

What is LifeLine?

Originally started in 1989, Lifeline is a partnership of the RI Department of Corrections and The Samaritans of RI, the state’s most trusted name in suicide prevention education.

LifeLine is a peer-to-peer befriending program designed to provide inmates with information which will help to lessen the anxiety resulting from incarceration and to serve as a peer outreach, awareness and referral to the programs, services and resources of the RIDOC.

Trained in nonjudgmental listening by The Samaritans of RI, LifeLiner inmate volunteers provide nonjudgmental befriending to the hopeless, alone, suicidal, grieving, infirmed and those, stressed by worry.

LifeLine does not replace professional medical, mental health, social service or pastoral care. However, a LifeLiner can provide supportive services between appointments or when family and friends are not available.

LifeLine is volunteer based and is not a medical or social service program. Inmates in need of medical attention, whether physical or psycho/social will be referred to the medical department for care.

Download a copy of our LifeLine program brochure.