Meet Andrea
Andrea's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Andrea (she/her) is a recent college graduate who matriculated this past August. Since then, she has been working but is severely underpaid. She is caught in a cycle of financial strain due to living expenses and student loans. As her own sole provider, Andrea shoulders the burden of it all, making it impossible to save or live beyond her means.
Currently, Andrea handles her hair removal through shaving because it is the least dysphoric method she can access. However, it is still a battle, and the amount of dysphoria she experiences makes it difficult, especially when undressing. She tucks all the time, which often leaves her with abdominal pain that hinders her daily life. "With this opportunity, I will be able to get cleared for surgery and finally be released from the prison that is my own body," she says.
Andrea's timeline
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Award Granted
April 4, 2024
Andrea was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!
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Care Received
May 3, 2024
A payment has been made toward Andrea's permanent hair removal!
Grant details
$2,000 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Andrea get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Andrea's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- After care
What is it?
Point of Pride provides grants to trans femme people seeking hair removal on their face, neck, or an area of the body in preparation for bottom surgery.
What is life like for a person who needs this care?
For trans femme folks, particularly trans femmes of color, access to facial hair removal often equates to safety against anti-trans violence or discrimination. It's common for applicants to note issues with employment and public safety, particularly if their facial hair is dark or thick. Electrolysis and laser hair removal services are often deemed cosmetic and therefore not covered by health insurance plans.
What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?
Access to hair removal often leads to a more positive emotional well-being, increased confidence, increased safety when in public, and better opportunities at employment and more.