Overview

• A leaked budget draft reveals plans to eliminate federal funding for the LGBTQ+ youth specialized services on the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, effective October 2025, if approved.
• The 988 lifeline, established in 2020 and launched in 2022, has connected over 1.2 million LGBTQ+ youth to trained counselors through its 'press 3' option.
• Advocacy groups warn that cutting funding for these services could jeopardize critical support for LGBTQ+ youth, who are at a significantly higher risk of suicide compared to their peers.
• The 988 lifeline remains operational 24/7, with no shutdown planned, despite misinformation circulating on social media about its status and Canadian involvement.
• The next federal budget cycle begins October 1, 2025, leaving time for advocacy efforts to influence the decision on funding for these specialized services.