For More Information, Contact:
Jered Weber
Communications Director
Lines for Life
[email protected]
Lines for Life Responds to Federal Decision to End LGBTQIA+ 988 Line
Lines for Life is a Resource for All
Portland, Ore. — As a home to Oregonʻs 988 and crisis hotlines for over 30 years, Lines for Life is disappointed and disheartened by the federal government’s decision to discontinue its dedicated line for LGBTQIA+ communities. This change, effective July 17, eliminates a critical resource for these individuals during a time when more support is needed.
Lines for Life has a clear message for Oregonians, and particularly those in the LGBTQIA+ community impacted by this decision: we are here for you – and we always will be. Our highly trained counselors bring compassion, support, and help to find the way to hope.
Since launching on October 22, the LGBTQIA+ line has served almost 1.3 million nationally. In Oregon alone, the line has received over 450 callers a month since its inception.
The LGBTQIA+ line launched in response to alarming mental health disparities faced by queer and trans individuals. According to the Trevor Project, youth from these communities are more than four times as likely to attempt suicide as their peers. For many, Option 3 is not just a number, it is a lifeline.
“Lines for Life stands ready to continue to serve those individuals regardless of how they come to 988,” said Lines for Life Chief Clinical Officer, Greg Borders. “Our counselors are trained to provide empathetic, affirming care for everyone. This is especially true for those who may no longer feel seen by system,” he added.
In addition to serving 988 callers, Lines for Life hosts several crisis lines focused on proving inclusive and responsive to underserved communities including youth, veterans, and construction workers. As part of the organization’s commitment to equity, it continues to ensure its callers have the skills and training needed to provide support that is inclusive of the individuals lived experience — whatever it may be.
“Our mission is to make sure everyone gets the mental health support they need,” said Lines for Life CEO Dwight Holton. “This support didn’t begin with a single line, and it doesn’t end with this change in federal policy,” he added.
For a complete list of our Lines for Life’s crisis lines visit our website at linesforlife.org. Youth can also connect with trained youth volunteers via text, chat, or call by visiting YouthLine’s website at theyouthline.org.
About Lines for Life
Based in Portland, Oregon, Lines for Life is a nonprofit dedicated to preventing substance abuse and suicide and promoting mental wellness. Our work addresses a spectrum of needs that include intervention, prevention, and advocacy.
