An unforeseen donation has injected fresh optimism into a U.S.-based charitable organization during a period of uncertainty. The Trevor Project, a non-profit supporting 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, has experienced a surge in calls to its crisis helplines under the current administration of Donald Trump. Concurrently, the organization faced a reduction in funding, limiting its ability to handle these calls effectively.
However, a game-changing moment arrived when author MacKenzie Scott’s philanthropic group reached out with a generous offer. Scott, a prominent philanthropist and ex-wife of Amazon’s founder Jeff Bezos, bestowed $45 million US ($62.2 million Cdn) upon The Trevor Project.
Janson Wu, the organization’s senior vice-president of philanthropy, expressed astonishment at the substantial donation. This sum nearly matches the non-profit’s annual budget of $47 million and surpasses the $25 million in federal funding lost during the Trump era.
Wu emphasized the critical timing of this donation, citing the White House’s decision to cease funding the “Press 3” option on the 988 National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which The Trevor Project supported. The organization’s capacity to respond to calls was hindered, necessitating a reevaluation of their crisis services.
The spike in incoming calls underscores the pressing need for support. Wu noted a 700% increase in calls post-Trump’s inauguration in 2025, with surges following every new assault on the community. The recent U.S. Supreme Court case on transgender participation in school sports triggered another influx of calls.
The significant contribution from Scott’s Yield Giving organization, part of her $7 billion US philanthropic initiative in 2025, exemplifies her commitment to large-scale, unrestricted giving. Despite not soliciting project proposals, Scott’s donations are meticulously vetted, ensuring long-term impact.
The Trevor Project aims to leverage this transformative gift for sustained impact and longevity. Wu highlighted the organization’s dedication to fulfilling Scott’s vision for generational change. Despite past financial and organizational hurdles, The Trevor Project remains resolute in its mission to support the mental well-being of 2SLGBTQ+ youth.
Wu acknowledged the heartbreaking nature of the calls received on their hotline, emphasizing the vulnerability of young individuals amidst societal challenges. Reflecting on the progress in LGBTQ+ rights, he underscored the importance of their work in providing crucial support to those in need.
