Meet Cara Anne
Cara Anne's story
Thrive Fund recipient
Cara Anne (she/her) is a trans woman of color navigating the challenges of unemployment and housing insecurity while living in a conservative area. For Cara Anne, her hair is more than a personal preference—it’s a critical aspect of her identity and safety. Being in the early stages of her transition, the state of her hair greatly influences how she is perceived and treated in her community and during her search for employment.
Currently within the NYC shelter system, Cara Anne faces significant financial limitations, with her resources barely covering essential expenses like food, travel, and laundry. She is seeking support to purchase a high-quality wig to present herself confidently and safely while she grows her natural hair. This would allow her to navigate job interviews with greater confidence and reduce the risks of street harassment or discrimination based on her appearance.
For Cara Anne, this grant represents more than a financial boost—it’s a step toward safety, dignity, and stability. By appearing "presentable" according to societal standards, she hopes to avoid further alienation in the job market and protect herself from the dangers of being visibly trans in her neighborhood. This support would provide her with the opportunity to put her best foot forward, secure employment, and move closer to achieving a stable and fulfilling life.
Cara Anne's timeline
-
Award Granted
November 19, 2024
Cara Anne was awarded a Thrive Fund award!
-
December 16, 2024
A retail purchase was made on behalf of Cara Anne!
Grant details
$540 towards gender-affirming care.
Donate
Help us support more people like Cara Anne get the care they need and deserve.
About Wig
On average, it costs $400+ for Cara Anne's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- Accessibility
- After care
What is it?
Wigs can be a vital tool for trans individuals, particularly trans femme people, to express their gender identity. Wigs are often used to create a hairstyle that aligns with one's presentation, especially when natural hair growth is impacted by genetics, hormones, or medical treatments.
What is life like for a person who needs this care?
For trans folks experiencing hair loss or dysphoria around their natural hair, finding a solution that affirms their gender can feel daunting. Without access to an affirming wig, some individuals may avoid public spaces or social interactions due to discomfort or fear of discrimination.
How accessible is it for trans folks to receive this care?
High-quality wigs can be expensive, often costing hundreds of dollars. Most insurance plans do not cover the cost of wigs. Affordable options are often low quality, less durable, or unrealistic in appearance.
What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?
A well-fitted, high-quality wig can boost confidence, reduce gender dysphoria, and help trans individuals feel more aligned with their gender identity. It can also improve mental health by enabling self-expression and facilitating social integration.