CHICAGO, Ill. (WAND) - Illinois will continue providing mental health services for LGBTQIA+ youth, according to the Illinois Department of Human Services. 

The organization said in a July 17 press release that the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline will continue despite the federal government ending funding for the services last month.

IDHS Secretary Dulce M. Quintero said in the release that regardless of what is happening at the national level, the state's commitment is to "keep building with love, trust and community."

"988 is a way to connect, especially in moments when things feel heavy. In Illinois, we’re focused on keeping those connections strong, and making sure people know they’re not navigating this alone," Quintero said. 

Additionally, the IDHS is working to expand crisis counselor training that is specific to supporting youth. 

The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7, and anyone needing the resource can call or text 988. 

Copyright 2025. WAND TV. All rights reserved.