Richard Simmons Privately Saving Lots of of Lives

Richard Simmons may be living life out of the spotlight, but he’s still impacting people’s lives in a profound way … telling TMZ he’s regularly communicating with fans who need help.

An emotional Richard told us by phone … he’s returning as many as 200 emails a day — in addition to making 15 to 20 personal calls … all to people who are struggling.

The fitness guru says he has gotten an overwhelming response to his “Daily Richards” … noting he’s never seen people in such a desperate state.

Amintiți-vă, earlier this month, Richard reached out to fans by letting them hear his voice for the first time in years. In the message, RS shared a sweet poem … a declaration of love.

His followers couldn’t get enough of the audio update … and Richard says he’s now considering venturing into video messages.

He adds … “I don’t know if a person can run out of tears but I hope I call these people and give them something to find in their life that’s worthwhile.”