In a world where political hostility is on the rise, a massive show of support has arrived just in time for Valentine’s Day. Philanthropist MacKenzie Scott has announced a transformational $45 million donation to The Trevor Project, the largest single one-time gift in the organization’s 27-year history.
A Response to a Growing Crisis
This historic contribution comes at a “pivotal moment,” according to CEO Jaymes Black. The Trevor Project recently lost approximately $25 million in federal funding due to policy shifts regarding the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. This loss threatened to leave thousands of queer youth without life-saving support. Scott’s $45 million gift acts as a financial “turnaround story,” allowing the organization to rehire staff, expand its 24/7 crisis services, and combat a worsening mental health crisis where 1.8 million LGBTQ+ youth consider suicide annually.
Moving Beyond Survival
The gift is unrestricted, meaning The Trevor Project can invest in long-term sustainability rather than just immediate crisis management. Plans are already in motion to strengthen “core crisis services” and innovate new ways to connect with isolated youth in rural areas.
“This gift is a powerful validation,” Black stated, noting that the mental health crisis among LGBTQ+ youth is statistically getting worse. At gay-chat.org, we believe this is the ultimate act of love. MacKenzie Scott isn’t just donating money; she is investing in the future of an entire generation. This $45 million Valentine sends a clear message to every queer kid out there: “You matter, and the world is fighting for your safety.”
