Recent changes in federal policy around our national suicide prevention hotline have set off alarms, especially about support—or lack thereof—for LGBTQ+ youth. California's stepping up in a big, bold move by teaming up with The Trevor Project. The aim? Keep these vital support lines open and responsive.
California's team-up with The Trevor Project
California Governor Gavin Newsom announced a new alliance between California Health and Human Services Agency (CalHHS) and The Trevor Project, a leading force in LGBTQ+ crisis support. The plan? Give counselors at 12 crisis centers statewide special training, making them stronger allies and more equipped than ever when it comes down specifically meeting LGBTQ+ teens and kids' needs.
Governor Newsom put it plainly: "While federal policies might be ignoring our LGBTQ+ youth, California won't turn its back. Partnering with The Trevor Project gives every young person here someone they can call on who gets it."
What's changing with 988?
The number 988 should be as memorable as 911, offering immediate mental help. But here lies a hitch: plans from Health and Human Services want funding cuts, ending support specifically crafted by and with LGBTQ+ youth in mind on July 17th. Advocates and allies see red flags everywhere!
Jaymes Black, CEO over at The Trevor Project, calls cutting that "Press 3 option"—which funneled LGBTQ+ youth directly connecting tailored support—devastating. "Removing that risks leaving millions stranded without someone who understands just when they need it most," Black said.
Why LGBTQ+ youth urgently need our help
The Trevor Project's survey from 2024 paints a serious picture: a large chunk who've seriously considered suicide. The political climate? Not helping—far from it—with anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric driving this mental health crisis deeper still.
Reports show spikes in crisis contact after big political events, too, so joining forces locally matters more than ever towards keeping continuous care. Thank goodness California gets it!
California stands by its LGBTQ+ young people
This collaboration with The Trevor Project slides right under California's Master Plan spotlighting Kid's Mental Health. First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom said, "This partnership mirrors California's desire empathetically tackling all mental health needs facing our LGBTQ+ youth."
CalHHS Secretary Kim Johnson chimed in supportively: "To every young LGBTQ+ person out there—you're important and definitely aren't alone. California's got your back." Ensuring counselors respond effectively towards unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youths means crafting welcoming spaces around crises.
California's firm grip on evidence-based, LGBTQ+ affirming practices positions itself true leader among youth mental health champions out there. As federal shifts happen underfoot, these moves reveal just how far California will defend—support, even—diverse young lives living right here inside its borders. It upholds rights while making sure kids feel seen, valued, and supported.
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