Meet Melissa
Melissa's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Melissa (she/her) is a disabled 37-year-old trans woman from Ohio who is navigating housing insecurity. "I am currently living in a motel with my girlfriend ever since we were evicted from our apartment in October," Melissa shares. Her girlfriend panhandles, and Melissa doesn't have a job. Most of their income goes toward keeping them housed.
"Free or discounted hair removal will be amazing and a godsend because we cannot afford it right now whatsoever," she explains.
Receiving support for hair removal would significantly improve Melissa's quality of life, helping her feel more comfortable and confident in her identity while alleviating some of the financial burdens she and her girlfriend currently face.
Melissa's timeline
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Award Granted
April 5, 2024
Melissa was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!
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Care Received
April 17, 2024
A payment has been made toward Melissa's permanent hair removal!
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Care Received
May 24, 2024
A payment has been made toward Melissa's permanent hair removal!
Grant details
$2,000 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Melissa get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Melissa'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.