For queer kids in Honolulu who feel like the walls are closing in at 2 a.m., there is now a local number to call instead of trying to ride it out alone. Kids Hurt Too Hawaiʻi has rolled out a 24/7 crisis and referral line for queer youth and their families, offering round-the-clock, culturally grounded support in both English and ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi. The line, reachable at 808-545-5683, connects callers with counseling, referrals and peer resources. The nonprofit says the service was created in response to growing demand for affirming, local help during the holiday season and beyond.
How the line works
According to Kids Hurt Too Hawaiʻi's website, the hotline at 808-545-5683 runs 24 hours a day, offering crisis counseling, referrals and peer support for queer youth and their families. Staff are tasked with connecting callers to local mental-health professionals and community resources in a way that feels affirming and culturally grounded. Coverage from KITV underscores that the line is designed to be a direct, around-the-clock support system rather than a one-off referral service.
Why it matters
LGBTQ+ young people are facing steep mental-health risks. A national survey from The Trevor Project found that roughly 39% of LGBTQ+ young people seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year, and about 12% reported an actual attempt.
At the same time, national reporting shows that some specialized LGBTQ services connected to the 988 lifeline have been scaled back this year, creating gaps that local programs are now scrambling to fill, according to KFF Health News. For families in Honolulu, a hotline staffed by local, culturally informed providers offers a rare combination: someone who understands both the island context and the stakes for queer youth.
Funding and how you can help
KITV reports that the new crisis line is currently operating without dedicated funding, and organizers are openly asking for community support to keep it alive. Kids Hurt Too Hawaiʻi lists volunteer and contact information on its site, and donations are being collected through the group’s online portal, hosted on Bonterra/Network for Good at kidshurttoo.networkforgood.com.
Immediate resources
If someone is in immediate danger, call 911. For mental-health emergencies, callers can dial or text 988 or visit the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. LGBTQ-specific support is still available nationally through organizations such as The Trevor Project (call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678) and Trans Lifeline (U.S. 1-877-565-8860). These services complement the new Honolulu hotline and can serve as additional options while local capacity continues to grow.
The new number gives queer young people and their families in Honolulu one more place to turn at a moment when national, specialized services are in flux. Organizers say the goal is to keep the line steady and affirming for the long haul, but its future will hinge on community backing and sustainable funding.
