By: Paul Goldberg, Senior Editor | JRL CHARTS – LGBT Politics USA
WASHINGTON D.C. — July 17, 2025 — A day after JRL CHARTS broke the story of the federal government’s decision to eliminate LGBTQ+ youth access to specialized suicide prevention services via the 988 Lifeline, the shutdown has officially taken effect.
Related Coverage Links on JRL CHARTS:
• Get the Latest in LGBT Politics USA Exclusively on JRL CHARTS
• LGBT Politics Europe – Updates on Hate Crimes, Judicial Rulings
• Stay Up to Date on the Happenings in LGBT Politics Asia
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) confirmed today that it has formally terminated the LGBTQ+ Youth Specialized Services option within the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Effective immediately, callers will no longer be able to “press 3,” “text PRIDE,” or request an LGBTQ+-trained counselor through online chat.
This closure marks the end of a program that since 2022 has delivered life-saving, evidence-backed support to over 1.5 million LGBTQ+ youth nationwide, particularly those under 25—a demographic shown to be at significantly higher risk for suicide.
The Trevor Project, the leading suicide prevention organization for LGBTQ+ young people, issued a powerful response just hours after the service was disabled.
Trevor Project’s Official Statement
“It’s hard to find the words today. Our country’s federal government — including the very agency in charge of protecting our mental health — cut a literal lifeline that has provided 1.5 million LGBTQ+ youth with suicide prevention services. It is unfathomable.”
“This administration has made a dangerous decision to play politics with real young people’s lives… I want every LGBTQ+ young person to know that you are worthy, valued, and loved exactly as you are.”
The full statement from CEO Jaymes Black continues with a call for public support and outlines the devastating impact on The Trevor Project’s own workforce and resources.
How to Take Action
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Donate to the Trevor Project’s Emergency Lifeline Campaign
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Sign the petition to reinstate LGBTQ+ protections in the 988 Lifeline
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Subscribe for updates on advocacy and legal challenges
Clarification & Resources
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The Trevor Project’s 24/7 confidential support remains available at:
1-866-488-7386
Chat: TheTrevorProject.org/Get-Help
Text “START” to 678678 -
No Canadian-based alternative exists for U.S. LGBTQ+ youth, despite social media rumors.
In Case You Missed It
Feds to Cut LGBTQ+ Youth Crisis Services from 988 Lifeline July 17 – Experts Warn of Suicide Risk Spike (JRL CHARTS – July 16, 2025)
Closing Line with Branding
As federal support disappears, JRL CHARTS LGBT Politics USA will continue to spotlight mental health access, advocacy campaigns, and community resources nationwide. Stay informed, stay engaged.
