Meet Jolene
Jolene's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Jolene (they/she) is a non-binary femme from North Carolina working at the front desk of a hotel, where they easily interact with hundreds of people daily. "Three-quarters of my pay goes to my rent, as I cannot afford transportation, so I need to live close to my job," Jolene shares.
"The people I interact with make a snap judgment on me based on my appearance, and it is crushing to interact with so many people every day who do not see me as I see myself," they explain.
In addition to the discrimination from customers, Jolene faces regular discrimination from management. "They belittle me, make comments on my facial hair, and regularly intentionally 'forget' my name and pronouns, justifying it by saying I don't 'look like a woman,'" they share. "It is a constant struggle to get through each day, and it would be made so much easier if I had resources to get my hair removed."
Receiving support for hair removal will significantly improve Jolene's quality of life, helping them feel more comfortable and confident in their identity while reducing the daily struggles and discrimination they face.
Jolene's timeline
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Award Granted
April 15, 2024
Jolene 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 Jolene get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Jolene'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.