CHICAGO — With the federal government announcing the end of “Option 3” on the national 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline—the line specifically designated for LGBTQ+ youth—two Chicago-based businesses have stepped up to support the community in a tangible way.
Bigmouth Creative and The T-Shirt Deli have partnered to release a limited-run Pride merchandise collection ahead of Chicago’s Pride Fest and Pride Parade weekends. The launch comes in direct response to the decision to cut the LGBTQ+-specific lifeline option, which is set to expire on July 17.
Pride Merch With a Mission
The local collaboration includes:
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Four exclusive T-shirts
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One community-designed tote bag
All items were designed by LGBTQ+ artists, with 100% of proceeds benefiting The Trevor Project — the nation’s leading nonprofit dedicated to suicide prevention among LGBTQ+ youth.
Jonathan Hart, owner and creative director of Bigmouth Creative, emphasized that this is more than a fashion statement.
“They [The Trevor Project] provide a safe space with someone who understands your experience,” Hart said. “Interventions like that save real lives.”
Hart also cited research showing that LGBTQ+ youth are four times more likely to attempt suicide compared to their peers.
Why Option 3 Mattered
Launched in 2022, Option 3 on the 988 Lifeline offered LGBTQ+ youth the ability to speak directly to counselors with lived experience or specialized training. It was hailed as a lifeline for marginalized youth seeking identity-affirming care during mental health crises.
The federal government says the main 988 Lifeline remains open to everyone, but advocates argue that removing the LGBTQ+ option erodes trust and accessibility.
The Trevor Project Is Taking Action
The Trevor Project has urged Congress to reverse the decision and restore the dedicated support line.
In the meantime, they continue to operate their own crisis services and are calling on the public to stay informed and engaged.
How You Can Help or Get Help
If you’re in crisis or know someone who is, help is still available:
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Call or text 988 for the main crisis line
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Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a counselor via the Crisis Text Line
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Call 1-800-273-8255 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
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Learn about risk factors and warning signs of suicide
To support The Trevor Project’s work directly, you can purchase the Pride merch or donate through their official website.
Have you or someone you know relied on the 988 crisis line? How should Illinois support LGBTQ+ youth in the absence of Option 3? Share your thoughts at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
