California and The Trevor Project Launch Landmark Initiative for LGBTQ+ Crisis Care
In a direct response to shifting federal policies and rising mental health needs, Governor Gavin Newsom has announced a strategic partnership between the State of California and The Trevor Project.
This collaboration is designed to fortify the state’s 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by providing specialized, affirming training to those on the front lines of crisis intervention.
Filling the Gap: The “Press 3” Void
The catalyst for this partnership is a significant change at the federal level.
Earlier this year, the federal administration terminated “Press 3,” a specialized prompt within the national 988 system that directly connected LGBTQ+ youth to counselors trained in their specific needs.
Following this termination, California’s 988 centers reported a sharp increase in LGBTQ+ youth calling the general line. Without the “Press 3” safety net, these young people are now relying on general counselors who may not have had specific training in LGBTQ-affirming care.
The Training Program: Precision and Empathy
Over the next 4 months (running through March 2026), more than 1,000 crisis counselors across all 11 of California’s 988 centers will undergo a rigorous curriculum developed by The Trevor Project.
The training is built on data collected from surveys of California’s crisis workforce to ensure it addresses real-world gaps in knowledge.
Counselors will be trained in understanding varied LGBTQ+ identities, recognizing specific risk factors (such as family rejection or housing instability), and utilizing best practices for “affirming” intervention—ensuring the caller feels seen and safe.
The Human Cost: Why This Matters Now
The stakes for this initiative are exceptionally high. According to research by The Trevor Project:
35% of LGBTQ+ youth in California reported seriously considering suicide in the past year.
LGBTQ+ youth are disproportionately impacted by mental health challenges not because of their identity, but because of the “minority stress” caused by discrimination and the loss of supportive resources.
Voices of Leadership
“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. We’re proud to partner with The Trevor Project to improve critical 988 services… California will continue to meet cruelty with kindness.” —Governor Gavin Newsom
“It’s critical for crisis counselors to understand their identities and the unique challenges they face. We are beyond grateful for CalHHS’ partnership to ensure crisis counselors get the training they need to give LGBTQ youth the culturally competent care they deserve.” —Mark Henson, VP of Advocacy at The Trevor Project
Immediate Resources for Those in Need
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available 24/7:
Call, Text, or Chat 988: Connect with the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
The Trevor Project: Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678 for specialized LGBTQ+ support.
CalHOPE: Visit for peer-led support and non-crisis resources.
