Meet Charlotte
Charlotte's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Charlotte (she/her) is a 48-year-old trans woman seeking gender affirmation surgery. She lives with her ex-girlfriend, who is now her best friend. Due to the high cost of electrolysis, Charlotte struggles to make ends meet and lives in HUD housing. In the past, she has experienced homelessness. She was previously denied surgery by her insurance and has been unable to afford the care she needs, leaving her feeling incomplete.
Charlotte is a facilitator for a support organization for transgender individuals and their families. She has also helped feed the homeless and distributed food to families in need.
Charlotte is excited about the prospect of a post-op life, believing she will feel complete after having the surgery. "It's been a long, hard journey to get to this point. This changes everything in my life. I will feel complete, and this is one of the last steps to be who I truly am," Charlotte shares.
Charlotte's timeline
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Award Granted
April 5, 2024
Charlotte was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!
Grant details
$2,000 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Charlotte get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Charlotte'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.