2026 Annual Trans Surgery Fund: Recipients Awarded $885,850

Congratulations to this year’s recipients!

This cycle, 28 recipients have been awarded a total of $885,850 in financial assistance toward their gender-affirming surgeries—bringing essential, often life-saving care within reach.

At a glance:

• 2 in 3 recipients are people of color.
• 2 in 3 recipients are living with a disability or chronic illness.
• Nearly half of recipients live in states at risk for or currently experiencing anti-trans legislation.
• 82% of recipients lack inclusive health insurance coverage.
• All 28 recipients have experienced housing insecurity at some point in their lives. 1 in 3 recipients are currently experiencing it.
• All 28 recipients have dealt with discrimination from a healthcare provider, either now or in the past.

This cycle, we received 1,588 applications. Our grants are designed to cover as much of a recipient’s healthcare costs as possible, often funding 70-97% of their total expenses. To fund every applicant’s requested procedure, it would take more than $43.2 million—far beyond our current resources.

With so many applicants, the selection process is incredibly competitive and difficult. Every person deserves access to necessary healthcare. As part of our equity-driven approach, we prioritize individuals who are most at risk of losing access to care altogether—including those directly impacted by shifting policies and systemic barriers. For example, this year three of our recipients are veterans or active duty service members. Of these, two have already been discharged or separated due to their gender identity.

"This year’s applicant pool underscores just how expensive healthcare has become, particularly for specialized and necessary procedures that many trans people rely on," explains Tyler Rodriguez, Director of Programs. "When these financial pressures intersect with systemic challenges, it creates an overwhelming burden that too many in our community are forced to carry alone—but through community support, we’re working to change that."

"Our work goes beyond funding," says Abby, Care Coordinator. "We’re helping people navigate a system that can feel isolating, confusing, and out of reach—and making sure they feel supported every step of the way."

Meet the first announced recipients of the 2026 cohort! Stay tuned as we share more of their stories leading up to Trans Day of Visibility on March 31.