Reality television star Heather Dubrow is using her high-profile platform to shine a light on the mental health crisis facing LGBTQ+ youth, announcing a significant personal donation to The Trevor Project. The announcement of a $50,000 gift from Dubrow and her husband, Terry, will be featured on an upcoming episode of Bravo’s The Real Housewives of Orange County.
The show’s 19th season, episode 14, airing Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025, at 9 p.m. Eastern time, will center around a fundraising event the reality star hosted. The event, held at Junior Cookies, launched a limited-edition cookie with proceeds also benefiting the national suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ+ young people.
A Cause “Near and Dear” to Dubrow’s Heart
In a preview clip for the episode, titled “Heather Dubrow Collabs with Junior Cookies for The Trevor Project Fundraiser,” Dubrow opened up about her deep-rooted commitment to the cause.
“The Trevor Project is an incredible organization that has a hotline for youth in crisis,” Dubrow said during the on-camera event. She explained that her involvement began through her daughter, Katarina, underscoring a connection that is both personal and passionate. “I think we can all agree that kids in crisis need help, and that is exactly what The Trevor Project does.”
Dubrow, a vocal supporter and parent of LGBTQ+ children, emphasized her role as an advocate. “This cause is very near and dear to my heart, not just because I’m a mother but as a fierce supporter of the LGBTQ+ community,” she said.
The reality star highlighted the urgency of the organization’s mission by sharing a sobering statistic. “Our home is filled with love, with acceptance. But I also know that not every young person grows up feeling safe. Every 45 seconds, an LGBTQ+ youth attempts suicide. And this is why The Trevor Project urgently needs our funds.”
It was immediately following this poignant statement that Heather and Terry Dubrow announced their substantial pledge. “In that spirit, Terry and I today are going to pledge $50,000 to continue all the incredible work that you do,” she said.
Advocating for Acceptance and Hope
Beyond the emotional announcement, Dubrow voiced her hope that showcasing The Trevor Project on a widely viewed television show will have a galvanizing effect on viewers.
“As a parent of LGBTQ+ children, I know firsthand how important it is to look out for their mental health and well-being,” she said. “All of our youth deserve to live in a world where they see bright futures for themselves, and the reality is that LGBTQ+ youth are a high-risk group that often grapple with challenges that other young people don’t have to face.”
Dubrow’s advocacy is rooted in a simple but powerful message of compassion and respect. “As a supportive mother and a steadfast advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, I know that we all have the power to change the course of someone’s life by treating them with respect, dignity and acceptance,” she added.
She expressed optimism that the episode would reach Americans with a “powerful and galvanizing message.” “LGBTQ+ youth need our support right now, and we can’t allow hateful rhetoric to prevail and impede their dreams for happy, successful, and long lives.”
A Positive Impact for Viewers
Kevin Wong, senior vice president of Marketing, Communications and Content for The Trevor Project, shared his organization’s gratitude for the exposure and support.
“We’re so grateful to Heather and Terry Dubrow for their incredible generosity and for using their platform to uplift LGBTQ+ young people,” Wong said in a statement. He noted that the couple’s personal gift and the Junior Cookies fundraiser will directly support the organization’s “life-saving support.”
“Expressing support for The Trevor Project on such a widely watched show is an incredible way to send a hopeful message to LGBTQ+ youth everywhere that they are seen, valued, and loved,” Wong added.
Speaking to Gayety, Dubrow’s hope is that her platform can serve as a conduit for change. Having studied The Trevor Project’s research on the positive impact of accepting adults on the mental health of LGBTQ+ young people, she aims for a dual influence.
“My hope is that featuring The Trevor Project’s mission, in addition to using my platform to highlight their critical work and the cast’s on-air support of the organization, nudges hearts and minds towards accepting LGBTQ+ youth,” Dubrow said. She also wants to reassure young people in crisis: “I also hope it shows our LGBTQ+ viewers that they have champions, that their lives have value, and that they can connect with The Trevor Project’s trained crisis counselors 24/7.”
The reality star urged viewers to take action, whether it’s through simple daily acceptance, sharing resources, or donating. Fans who wish to amplify Heather Dubrow’s support for the organization can donate to The Trevor Project online at TRVR.org/DonateToday.
