California Partners with The Trevor Project for LGBTQ Youth Support

Dec 22, 2025, 3:47 AM

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California has announced a partnership with The Trevor Project to improve training for crisis counselors at the state's 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, specifically aimed at supporting LGBTQ youth. This initiative is part of a broader commitment by Governor Gavin Newsom to address the mental health challenges faced by this vulnerable population, which is disproportionately affected by suicide risk and mental health issues.

Beginning this month and continuing through March 2026, over 1,000 crisis counselors will receive specialized training designed to enhance their understanding of LGBTQ identities, support needs, and effective crisis intervention practices. The training follows detailed surveys conducted by The Trevor Project, which assessed the needs of crisis counselors across California's 988 centers.

The urgency of this initiative is underscored by alarming statistics: research from The Trevor Project indicates that 35% of LGBTQ youth in California seriously considered suicide in the past year. This partnership aims to equip counselors with the skills necessary to provide culturally competent care, ensuring that LGBTQ youth receive the support they need during critical moments.

The collaboration comes at a time when California has seen a significant increase in LGBTQ youth seeking help through the 988 centers. Early data suggests that following the Trump administration's termination of the "Press 3" service, which offered specialized counseling for LGBTQ youth, there has been a notable rise in contacts to the general 988 line. This shift highlights the growing demand for mental health resources tailored to the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ youth.

Governor Newsom emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "As the Trump administration abandons the well-being of LGBTQ youth, California is putting more resources toward providing vulnerable kids with the mental health support they deserve." First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom echoed this sentiment, expressing pride in California's proactive approach to counteract federal policies that may harm LGBTQ youth.

Kim Johnson, Secretary of the California Health and Human Services Agency, reinforced the state's commitment to meeting the needs of LGBTQ youth, stating, "California is committed to meeting every young person where they are, with compassion, understanding, and support." This initiative is part of a larger strategy to ensure that crisis counselors are prepared to provide affirming care to all young people in crisis.

In addition to the training for crisis counselors, California's Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI) aims to provide comprehensive behavioral health services for children and families, including targeted support for LGBTQ youth. This initiative includes funding for community organizations to create safe spaces and reduce stigma around mental health issues, further enhancing the support network available to LGBTQ youth.

For those in crisis, California's 988 call centers are available 24/7, staffed by trained counselors ready to assist anyone in need. LGBTQ youth can also reach out to The Trevor Project directly for specialized support.

As California takes these steps to bolster mental health resources for LGBTQ youth, the state continues to demonstrate its commitment to inclusivity and support, standing in stark contrast to federal policies that may undermine the well-being of these young individuals.

For immediate assistance, individuals can call, text, or chat 988 to connect with trained crisis counselors, or reach The Trevor Project at 1-866-488-7386, via chat at TheTrevorProject.org/GetHelp, or by texting START to 678678.

This partnership marks a significant step forward in ensuring that LGBTQ youth in California receive the compassionate and effective support they need during times of crisis, reinforcing the state's dedication to mental health and well-being for all its residents.

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