NYC Groups Support LGBTQ+ Youth Amidst Suicide Hotline Service Cuts

Impact of Service Cuts on LGBTQ+ Youth

• 💔 The Trump administration's decision to end specialized LGBTQ+ suicide prevention services through the 988 hotline is expected to have devastating and deadly consequences, particularly for the youth.
• 💡 Advocates emphasize that the existence of these services sends a crucial message that queer youth matter and are valued.
• 📊 According to The Trevor Project, 39% of LGBTQ+ young New Yorkers seriously considered suicide in the past year, and 12% attempted it.
• 📈 A recent study indicates that LGBTQ+ youth are four times more likely to attempt suicide compared to their peers.

The Trevor Project's Role and Challenges

• 📞 The Trevor Project has been a long-standing provider of support for LGBTQ+ youth and began offering specialized services to 988 callers in 2022.
• 🛑 However, they received a stop work order effective July 17th, impacting their ability to provide this specific support.
• 🆘 While The Trevor Project will continue to offer crisis services through its own hotline, it will be significantly more difficult to reach those in need.

Local Support and Advocacy Efforts

• 🏘️ The Queens Community House in Forest Hills offers unique services for LGBTQ+ youth, including a drop-in center and dedicated programming where they feel understood and safe.
• 📣 With only a few weeks before the specialized services are eliminated, advocates are petitioning and pushing for lawmakers to intervene.
• ✍️ Over 100 House members signed a letter urging the health department to preserve the LGBTQ+ option, with seven senators also signing a similar letter.