18-07-2025
California steps in to support LGBTQ+ youth after federal lifeline cutback
(FOX 5/KUSI) — As the Trump administration eliminates a specialized LGBTQ+ support option on the national 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, California is stepping up to ensure vulnerable youth are not left behind.
Starting July 17, LGBTQ+ youth across the U.S. will no longer be able to press '3' on the 988 Lifeline to be routed to LGBTQ+-specific counselors—a service that has supported over 1.5 million calls since its launch in 2022. But state leaders in California say the Golden State won't let those young people go unheard.
Governor Gavin Newsom, in partnership with the California Health and Human Services Agency (CalHHS) and national suicide prevention nonprofit The Trevor Project, announced on Wednesday a new effort to bolster 988 support services for LGBTQ+ callers. The initiative will include enhanced training for crisis counselors across California's 988 call centers to ensure competent and inclusive care.
'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,' Newsom said in a statement. '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.'
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State officials say the change reflects California's broader investment in youth mental health, including programs under the state's Master Plan for Kids' Mental Health and the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI). These efforts have funded LGBTQ+-specific mental health programs, expanded community spaces, and launched anti-stigma campaigns aimed at youth.
Kim Johnson, Secretary of CalHHS, emphasized the urgency of the work, stating, '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.'
First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom was more pointed in her criticism of the federal move.
'There could not be a more stark reminder of the moral bankruptcy of this administration than cutting off suicide prevention resources for LGBTQ youth,' she said. 'These are young people reaching out in their time of deepest crisis —and I'm proud of California's work to partner with the Trevor Project to creatively address this need.'
Where to get help
While the federal 'Press 3' LGBTQ+ support option will disappear from the national 988 hotline on July 17, California residents can still access trained LGBTQ+-affirming crisis counselors through state-supported 988 call centers or by contacting The Trevor Project directly
Here are ways to get help:
Call, text, or chat 988 at any time for 24/7 support.
Text PRIDE or call 1‑866‑488‑7386 to reach The Trevor Project's crisis counselors.
Visit for free non-crisis support and peer counseling.
Why it matters
LGBTQ+ youth are four times more likely to attempt suicide than their non-LGBTQ+ peers, according to national data. Without access to affirming services, those risks are expected to increase.
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