On Monday, MacKenzie Scott, the renowned philanthropist and ex-wife of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, made a significant contribution of $45 million to The Trevor Project, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ youth. This remarkable donation comes in the wake of recent decisions by the Trump administration to discontinue counseling services for queer youth, which were offered through the federally funded 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline that The Trevor Project had administered.
Jaymes Black, CEO of The Trevor Project, hailed the donation as “transformational,” noting that it represents the largest single gift the organization has received in its 27-year history. Scott had previously donated $6 million to The Trevor Project during the first Trump administration and has since become known for her substantial philanthropic efforts. In 2025 alone, she donated over $7 billion to various nonprofit organizations.
Black emphasized the importance of Scott’s donation, especially during a time when LGBTQ+ youth face significant challenges, including increased stigma and mental health issues. “At a time when many LGBTQ+ young people are facing heightened stigma, political hostility, and mental health challenges, MacKenzie Scott’s support sends a powerful message,” he stated, reinforcing that the value of LGBTQ+ youth is recognized by those advocating for their safety and well-being.
According to a survey from The Trevor Project regarding LGBTQ+ youth mental health in the United States, approximately 45 percent of individuals aged 13 to 24 have contemplated suicide. The organization’s mission is focused on providing support to those most at risk. Following the 2024 election of Donald Trump, The Trevor Project experienced a staggering 700 percent increase in calls, chats, and texts, with spikes in communications also noted after key political events, such as the ruling in the US v. Skrmetti case that upheld Tennessee’s ban on gender-affirming care for minors.
Black views Scott’s generous contribution as a vital move towards enhancing the organization’s capacity to serve more LGBTQ+ youth globally and ensuring that necessary resources are available when they are most needed. He stated, “Over the coming months, we will road-map a strategic and thoughtful investment plan focused on strengthening our core crisis services, improving long-term sustainability, and accelerating our progress toward a world where every LGBTQ+ young person knows they are loved and supported.”
In addition to her contribution to The Trevor Project, Scott has made several other multimillion-dollar donations recently to organizations focused on environmental protection and public education, showcasing her commitment to various social causes. This latest gift not only underscores her philanthropy but also represents a beacon of hope for LGBTQ+ youth, affirming their worth and the ongoing fight for their rights and mental health support.