As the holidays approach, many focus on giving gifts, decorating, and festive cheer. But for LGBTQ+ youth across the United States, this season can be a reminder of isolation and struggle. Research shows that LGBTQ+ youth are more than four times as likely to attempt suicide compared to their peers, and the mental health crisis among these young people is worsening.
A Lifeline in Crisis
This year, the situation became more urgent when the federal government abruptly shut down the national LGBTQ+ youth suicide prevention hotline. More than 1.5 million young people who relied on this lifeline lost access to critical support. In response, The Trevor Project launched the Emergency Lifeline Campaign for LGBTQ+ Youth, aiming to strengthen its 24/7 phone, text, and chat crisis services.
“Right now, LGBTQ+ youth in the United States are facing a perfect storm,” said Janson Wu, SVP of Philanthropy at The Trevor Project. “At the same time they face a growing mental health crisis, their access to life-saving crisis care faces unprecedented attacks. Our Emergency Lifeline Campaign was created to fill the gap left by the federal government. No matter where you live or what your personal politics are, everyone has a role in helping save the lives of LGBTQ+ youth across the country.”
Community Response and the Need for Support
The campaign has already received incredible support. More than 18,000 people have donated, raising over $20 million. Yet, with an estimated 1.8 million LGBTQ+ youth seriously considering suicide each year, the need for philanthropy remains critical.
The Trevor Project emphasizes that suicide prevention should never be a political issue. Funding for LGBTQ+ youth crisis services has previously received bipartisan support in Congress, yet this year’s federal cuts threaten the ability to respond to half of the nearly 500,000 requests for help received last year.
How You Can Make a Difference
Donations to The Trevor Project directly fund crisis services and ensure LGBTQ+ youth have access to life-saving support 24/7. Every contribution helps fill the gap left by federal funding cuts and protects vulnerable young people during a time of extraordinary need.
“This is a moment for action,” Wu said. “We cannot let these young people down—not on our watch. We must protect our community.”
As you plan year-end giving, consider supporting LGBTQ+ youth. Your gift can provide hope, guidance, and a lifeline for those who need it most this holiday season.
Support The Trevor Project’s Emergency Lifeline Campaign for LGBTQ+ Youth here.
