Meet Emma
Emma's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Emma (she/her) is an intersex, Two-Spirit, trans femme from Ohio. Emma is disabled and cares for her partner and their cats. She and her partner rely on food stamps and state health insurance due to their financial situation. With no money available for hair removal in their budget, Emma experiences daily dysphoria about her facial hair. However, due to her disabilities and her role as her partner's caretaker (they are a full-time wheelchair user in an inaccessible apartment), she is unable to shave every day.
"It would mean such a quality of life improvement for me to be able to receive free services," Emma shares.
Emma's timeline
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Award Granted
April 13, 2024
Emma 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 Emma get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Emma'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.