Meet Clara
Clara's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Clara (she/her) is a disabled 29-year-old trans woman who has been out since late 2019. To date, she's paid out-of-pocket for her transition-related care, nearly $53,000 in total, putting her into significant financial debt. She currently lives with her girlfriend but is not on the lease after abruptly leaving her last apartment due to transphobia from her roommate. Clara has also faced discrimination and harassment in her workplace, including from her sole HR representative and her direct bosses.
"Bottom surgery will finally allow me to at least feel complete in my body despite these challenges and will save my life," Clara explains. "Continuing on without it feels impossible." Receiving support for hair removal would be a crucial step toward being able to access that surgery, as hair removal is a prerequisite. In addition, it will help in alleviating her dysphoria and improving her mental health, helping her move forward with her transition and live her life with greater ease and confidence.
Clara's timeline
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Award Granted
April 8, 2024
Clara was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!
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Care Received
April 25, 2024
A payment has been made toward Clara's permanent hair removal!
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Care Received
May 10, 2024
A payment has been made toward Clara's permanent hair removal!
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Care Received
June 25, 2024
A payment has been made toward Clara's permanent hair removal!
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Care Received
August 7, 2024
A payment has been made toward Clara's permanent hair removal!
Grant details
$4,000 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Clara get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Clara'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.