Meet Violet
Violet's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Violet (she/her) is a 39-year-old trans femme and disabled veteran from Oregon. As a single mother of two children, she has been unemployed for over a year and has faced the risk of homelessness. They have been surviving on her VA benefits. Violet is the sole provider for her children, as their other mother is transphobic and moved out of the country to avoid paying child support. With no family close by, Violet has had to pull all her retirement savings from her 401k to cover housing costs.
Currently, Violet shaves daily, which she despises due to the time, effort, and cost involved in supplies. She has managed some permanent hair removal on her face in the past, but has been unable to afford any treatments towards preparing for bottom surgery. "I just want the percentage of dysphoria I feel every day to go down. Plus safety and mental health," she shares.
Receiving support for hair removal would significantly improve Violet's quality of life, reducing her daily dysphoria and enhancing her safety and mental health. This assistance would allow her to focus more on providing for her children and improving her overall well-being.
Violet's timeline
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Award Granted
April 9, 2024
Violet was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!
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Care Received
April 30, 2024
A payment has been made toward Violet's permanent hair removal!
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Update
June 17, 2024
Violet shared, "[It's] easier to look in the mirror every day and not be sad. It's one less thing to worry about in the morning."
Grant details
$2,000 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Violet get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Violet'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.