Meet Josie
Josie's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Josie (she/her) took some time to realize and come out as her true self. After college, she secured a decent job, which unfortunately disqualified her from state insurance that would cover hair removal. Resigned to paying out of pocket, she was shocked by the high costs at a laser hair removal assessment session, particularly for dealing with her facial hair and the body hair of a 20-something Italian.
"I think about my facial hair every day when I get up and get ready. Half the time I am just not motivated to shave, or I get sore from doing it too often," Josie shares. She feels that her facial hair is the biggest way people know she is trans or misgender her. "The confidence removing it is something I can't even imagine. I am so grateful to have the opportunity. I was close to giving up entirely on this aspect of my transition."
Josie has a lot of opinions and ideas but has always been quiet and reserved. "The confidence I will get from this treatment will show a whole new side of me to everyone I interact with," she says.
Josie decided to go to college to find a rewarding job that made a positive impact on the world. She earned a BA in clinical psychology and has worked with kids with behavioral problems, on a suicide hotline, in a detox center, and now as a housing specialist for homeless people in her community.
Josie's timeline
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Award Granted
April 8, 2024
Josie was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!
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Care Received
August 20, 2024
A payment has been made toward Josie's permanent hair removal!
Grant details
$2,000 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Josie get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Josie'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.