In a direct response to the Trump administration’s decision to end specialized support for LGBTQ+ youth on the national 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, California is reinforcing its commitment to providing life-saving services for young people in crisis. The federal cut, which officially ends the dedicated LGBTQ+ support option on July 17, is being met with a state-led initiative to ensure continuous, affirming, and inclusive care.
Governor Gavin Newsom and the California Health and Human Services Agency (CalHHS) have announced a new partnership with The Trevor Project, the world’s leading suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ+ young people. This collaboration will provide California’s twelve 988 crisis centers with enhanced competency training from The Trevor Project’s experts. The initiative aims to ensure that counselors are even better equipped to address the specific needs and challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth, building upon their existing comprehensive training.
The move has been framed by state leaders as a necessary countermeasure to federal policies perceived as harmful to the LGBTQ+ community.
“While the Trump administration continues its attacks on LGBTQ kids, California has a message to the gay community: we see you and we’re here for you,” said Governor Gavin Newsom. “We’re proud to work with the Trevor Project to ensure that every person in our state can get the support they need to live a happy, healthy life.”
First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom echoed the sentiment, stating, “There could not be a more stark reminder of the moral bankruptcy of this Administration than cutting off suicide prevention resources for LGQBT youth… I know this state will always meet cruelty with kindness and stand up for what’s right.”
Why This Matters
The stakes are incredibly high. According to research, LGBTQ+ youth are four times more likely to attempt suicide than their peers. The lack of affirming and specialized care can dramatically increase this risk.
The national 988 “Press 3” option, which connected callers to counselors trained in LGBTQ+ issues, has been a critical resource. Since its launch in 2022, it has provided vital support to more than 1.5 million individuals in crisis, demonstrating a profound need for the service.
California’s Ongoing Commitment
This new partnership is part of a broader strategy under California’s Master Plan for Kids’ Mental Health and the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI). The state has already funded numerous community organizations to create and expand LGBTQ+ safe spaces, increase workforce support, combat stigma, and raise awareness about suicide prevention.
“To every young person who identifies as LGBTQ+: You matter. You are not alone. California will continue to show up for you with care, with compassion, and with action,” said Kim Johnson, Secretary of CalHHS.
How to Get Help in California
California officials emphasize that multiple avenues for free and confidential support remain open 24/7 for all youth, regardless of insurance or immigration status.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call, text, or chat 988 to be connected with a trained crisis counselor at one of California’s twelve call centers.
The Trevor Project: Dial 1-866-488-7386 or text PRIDE to 678-678 to connect directly with specialists trained to support LGBTQ+ youth.
CalHOPE: Visit the CalHOPE website for non-crisis peer and family support.
Virtual Services: Free virtual behavioral health platforms, BrightLife Kids (for ages 0-12) and Soluna (for ages 13-25), are available to address mental health concerns before they become a crisis.
