Meet Jazelle
Jazelle's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Jazelle (she/her) is a Black trans woman from St. Louis. "Living my life authentically has always been a journey filled with challenges," she shares.
Jazelle works part time and often struggles to make ends meet, especially when it comes to affording her gender affirming care.
"Receiving the laser hair removal award has been a transformative experience for me. Laser hair removal is expensive, and without this award, it would have been out of reach. Since my first treatment, I've felt a significant difference. It's not just about the physical changes; it's about the confidence and authenticity that come with it. This award has given me a chance to live more freely and embrace my true self." Jazelle shares.
Jazelle's timeline
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Award Granted
April 12, 2024
Jazelle was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!
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Care Received
May 2, 2024
A payment has been made toward Jazelle's permanent hair removal!
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Renewal Award Granted
May 2, 2024
Jazelle was offered a Renewal Award!
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Update
July 23, 2024
Jazelle shared, "Having support from nonprofits for self-affirming surgeries has been incredibly impactful for me. As a trans person, there is so much that goes into ensuring I feel comfortable and confident before stepping out the door each day. These surgeries are not just about physical changes but about aligning my exterior with who I am on the inside. The assistance from these organizations makes a world of difference, helping me access procedures that would otherwise be financially out of reach. This support empowers me to live authentically and face the world with greater confidence."
Grant details
$4,000 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Jazelle get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Jazelle'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.