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Meet Ivy

Ivy

Ivy's story

Electrolysis Support Fund recipient

Ivy (she/her) has identified as a woman since early childhood, despite the significant costs to her stability and family relationships. Her journey has been marked by unwavering persistence, even when being trans made finding a room to rent incredibly difficult, leaving her unhoused. The shelters she turned to were not welcoming, and she faced endless cruelties from both staff and residents.

Now indoors, Ivy wakes up at 4 am daily, spending hours plucking each hair from her face in an enduring ritual fueled by the need to be accepted. She is seeking funds for gender-affirming care to enhance her appearance and alleviate the constant worry about societal acceptance.

"I am proud of who I am, and I embrace my journey with determination."

Ivy's timeline

  • Award Granted

    April 8, 2024

    Ivy was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!

Grant details

$2,000 towards gender-affirming care.

TikTok-a-Thon grantee





About Hair Removal: Femme Award

On average, it costs $2,300+ for Ivy's 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.