The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously on Tuesday, moving forward with efforts to protect the LGBTQ+-specific crisis hotline services following the Trump administration’s decision to cut federal funds for those resources.
The allegations introduced by supervisors Janice Hahn and Lindsey P. Horvath come just days before the Federal Agency for Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services (SAMHSA) implements the cuts.
Funds to support the National 9-8-8 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline’s “Press 3” option, and options to route callers to certain LGBTQ+ counselors are expected to end by Thursday, July 17th, according to SAMHSA.
“The LGBTQ+ community, and especially the youth of the LGBTQ+ in particular, are less secure and more vulnerable thanks to the atrocities of the Trump administration,” Coach Hearn said in a statement. “The federal government may have turned its back on LGBTQ+ people, but here in LA County, we do everything in our power to keep this community safe.”
Currently, callers on the National 9-8-8 Lifeline can press 3 to connect with a Trevor Project trained counselor, which offers 24/7 crisis support specifically for LGBTQ+ youth. The service has become a reliable lifeline for many people in crisis, especially amid growing concerns about the mental health of young people.
Where LALGBTQ+ young people can find mental health support now
“Every young people should know that they are important and that they are never alone,” said director Holvas. “It can make all the difference to have someone who understands their experiences in a moment of crisis. We are exploring all the paths to ensure that support does not disappear, as it is more important than ever to show up in LGBTQ+ young people.”
Since its launch in 2022, 9-8-8 Lifeline has made over 1.3 million calls from LGBTQ+ young people.
According to a national survey, LGBTQ+ youth are more likely to attempt suicide four times more than non-LGBTQ+ peers, and access to specialized support services is important.
Tuesday’s motion, along with the county’s legislative issues and intergovernmental relations team, and the Department of Mental Health, will direct them to report the expected impact of federal funding cuts within 15 days.
Additionally, the Department of Mental Health is responsible for identifying options for maintaining a link between the county’s 9-8-8 system and LGBTQ+-specific counselling services, with reports scheduled for within 30 days.
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