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Frequently Asked Questions

Our Organization

"What is your mission?"

Our mission is to help trans youth and adults access necessary, life-saving health and wellness services. Our vision is a world where trans and gender diverse people of all ages see a bright, safe future for themselves—living in their authentic truth.

"What do you do?"

We provide:

The vast majority of recipients are trans youth, folks living with disabilities/chronic illness, and folks living in rural/unaffirming regions.

"When were you founded?"

Point of Pride was founded in 2016, but gets its beginnings as early as 2011. Learn more about us

"Where are you based?"

We are incorporated in Eugene, Oregon, but our team members live all over the United States.

"How can I support this work?"

Thank you for your interest and generosity! You can make a donation safely and securely online, or via mailed check. You can also support our work through PayPal Giving Fund hosted platforms like eBay for Charity, Humble Bundle, GoFundMe, Airbnb, Nextdoor, and others. Plus, many employers offer corporate donation matching. It's often a quick and simple way to amplify your support and make an even greater impact.

"How can my company/organization support this work?"

We offer a variety of sponsorship opportunities so businesses of any size may support our work. For inquiries or in-kind donations, please email info@pointofpride.org. Thanks in advance for your generosity!

"How do you protect privacy and security?"

Point of Pride is committed to protecting the safety, confidentiality, and privacy of every person we serve. The information we collect is never passed on to any other party for any reason, and we have implemented industry best-practices to keep data secure. Read our full privacy policy

"What is your commitment to transparency?"

We commit to remaining accountable, not just in sharing tax and financial data, but also in how we make decisions to ensure we are best serving the most vulnerable members of our trans community. Read our full transparency statement

"Do you offer emergency funding or asylum support?"

Unfortunately, Point of Pride cannot help people get asylum. We do not offer emergency funding, crisis support, or asylum support. For information about leaving your country and coming to the US, we recommend you visit Immigration Equality’s website.

"Do you offer crisis or emotional support?"

Point of Pride is a small, primarily volunteer-operated team. As much as we want to directly help you, our team simply doesn't have the expertise to do so. You deserve the best resources available, which is why we strongly recommend you contact one or more of the organizations on our Other Resources page that are much better-suited for your needs. They've helped so many of us through challenging times and we are hopeful they will help you, too.

"Do you provide funding to non-profits, community organizations, or GSAs?"

No. At this time, Point of Pride only awards financial assistance to individuals.

Annual Trans Surgery Fund

"Is ____ an eligible procedure?"

Yes. We accept applications for any gender-affirming procedure. For surgeries that are multi-step or consist of several procedures (such as facial feminization surgery), this grant will cover only those procedures that can be performed on a single surgery date.

"Can I apply if I have health insurance?"

Yes. Please note this information in your application. Note that we do not have any requirements like that you need to have attempted coverage in the past, you need to have received a denial letter, or anything like that. We recognize there are many scenarios in which you may have inclusive healthcare coverage and still cannot use your insurance.

"Are there age requirements?"

Applicants must be at least 18 years old by your surgery date. There is no upper limit for age.

"Can I snail-mail you my application?"

No, we can not accept any materials sent through the mail. All documents must be uploaded via our online form.

"Can I apply if I live in a different country?"

Yes, you are welcome to apply for the Surgery Fund if you live outside the U.S. However, due to our non-profit status, all surgeries must be performed in the United States and its territories. That means in order to apply, you have to be physically and financially able to travel to the United States for your care. (At this time, Point of Pride grants cover surgical fees and cannot be applied to travel, lodging, or other logistical expenses.)

"Can I apply to pay back medical loans/expenses for a surgery I’ve already had?"

We understand the challenges of debt and medical loans that so many of us deal with in order to afford care. Unfortunately, no; you must apply for financial aid towards a future surgery. Our grants are paid directly to health care providers specifically for the procedure itself, before it takes place.

"Can I send you a letter of recommendation?"

No, letters of recommendation are not accepted at this time.

"When will I receive a response about my application?"

You will receive an email from an "@pointofpride.org" account by late February–early March. (Please check your spam folder and the quota limit on your inbox to make sure it hasn’t been filtered or bounced back. You may need to search for email accounts that end in “@pointofpride.org” or update your settings to allow emails from “@pointofpride.org” accounts.)

"When are recipients selected?"

Typically, recipients are selected and notified in late February–early March. We are a primarily volunteer-operated non-profit, so sometimes it can take longer as we process the high volume of applications. We appreciate your patience!

"Can the grant be applied towards travel, lodging, or other expenses before, during, or after surgery?"

We understand the challenges of debt and medical loans that so many of us deal with in order to afford care. Unfortunately, no; at this time, our grants are paid directly to health care providers specifically for the procedure itself, before it takes place. We cannot apply grant awards toward transportation, lodging, general expenses or (for international applicants) getting a visa and other logistical expenses.

"Can I apply if I have already scheduled my surgery?"

Yes; if you have a surgery date scheduled, there is an option to include that in your application. Because of the time it takes our volunteers to review the high number of applications we receive each year, however, we can not fund applicants who are having surgery in the months of November–February of the current cycle. So, when you submit an application in November, your surgery would need to be scheduled on or after March 1 of the following year in order to receive funding.

"How can I submit a high-quality application?"

We strongly encourage you to review our Instruction Packet, which walks you through each question of the application with tips. Ultimately, our reviewers are looking for thorough responses that answer each question with specific examples and detailed explanations. 

"Can you help me find a surgeon?"

Unfortunately, no. Our team does not have the expertise or ability to provide referrals or recommendations for trans-affirming surgeons. Every person's surgery goals and priorities are unique. So many factors – a given surgeon's specialty or expertise, the procedure type that's right for you, whether or not you're willing/able to travel for surgery – means that finding a surgeon is a highly individualized decision. Therefore, you will ultimately be the best judge of who your provider should be. We recommend that you reach out to local LGBTQ+ centers and trans support groups, as well as your current healthcare providers and/or insurance company (if applicable), for recommendations to help you as you research.

"Can I submit an application on behalf of someone else?"

We recognize there may be barriers that prevent someone from submitting an application on their own without help. You may submit an application on behalf of someone else only if you are working directly with the applicant and clearly reference their involvement in completing the application. (For example, if you are providing technological support, language translation, or other assistance on behalf of the applicant, please note your role and that the applicant is still the primary author of their responses.) However, you may not submit an application without the applicant's involvement. (For example, applying for a loved one without their knowledge.) While we understand the desire to surprise someone with a grant, our process builds on the fundamental idea that trans people are our own best advocates: we want to ensure that this belief is reflected throughout the application process.

"How much money do grant recipients receive?"

Grant awards vary widely. The fund covers a high percentage (70-97%) of your total surgical, anesthesia, and facility fees. You will be responsible for a smaller percentage of your care, with a maximum out-of-pocket expense specified in your recipient agreement. You should expect to cover travel fees, lodging, food expenses, time away from work, postoperative nursing care (when required), and certain postoperative medications. 

"Can I apply for my care while being a support person for someone else's application?"

Yes, you can be both an applicant for your own application and a support person for someone else's application during the same cycle.

"I've received support from Point of Pride in the past. Can I apply?"

Yes, you can apply if you have already received funding or support through any of Point of Pride’s programs. If you received a grant through the Electrolysis Support Fund, you'll be invited to apply for a Renewal Award once you have used at least 90% of your current grant award.

HRT Access Fund

"Can I apply if I have health insurance?"

Yes, you may still apply so long as your chosen telehealth provider does not have any restrictions.

"Can I apply if I'm under the age of 18?"

Unfortunately, no. We are so excited to hear that more parents and guardians are interested in supporting those under the age of 18 in pursuing affirming medical care. However, due to current legislation and the constant shifting in legislation, Point of Pride is unable to provide financial assistance, even with parent or guardian authorization. 

"Can I apply if I live in a different country?"

Unfortunately, no. At this time, all applicants must reside in the United States within the current service area of their chosen provider.

"Can I apply to pay back expenses for HRT/medical services I’ve already had?"

We understand the challenges of debt and medical loans that so many of us deal with in order to afford care. Unfortunately, no; you must apply for financial aid towards future access to HRT and medical services.

"I need puberty blockers. Does this program cover them?"

Unfortunately, no. At this time, puberty blockers are not covered.

"When will I receive a response about my application?"

You will receive an email from an "@pointofpride.org" account about 2 months from when the application cycle ends. (Please check your spam folder and the quota limit on your inbox to make sure it hasn’t been filtered or bounced back. You may need to search for email accounts that end in “@pointofpride.org” or update your settings to allow emails from “@pointofpride.org” accounts.)

"When are recipients selected?"

Typically, recipients are selected and announced about 3-4 months from when the application cycle ends. We are a primarily volunteer-operated non-profit, so sometimes it can take longer as we process the high volume of applications. We appreciate your patience!

"I’d like to nominate someone to receive funding."

It’s wonderful that you’d like to support trans loved ones in your life to help them access the care they need. However, our program does not take nominations into consideration when awarding financial aid. To be considered, your friend will need to personally submit an application. This helps protect your friend’s privacy, safety, and comfort, and keep our processes as fair as possible for all applicants. Thank you for your understanding!

"I've missed the application window deadline. Can I submit a late application?"

Unfortunately, no. Please apply during our next application cycle.

"Can I apply this cycle if I have applied in the past?"

Yes, you are welcome to submit an application every cycle.

"I've made a mistake on my submitted application. Can I edit it?"

Unfortunately, no. All submitted applications are final, and you cannot edit your responses. If you are selected to move forward as a finalist, you will be invited to review and provide updated information at that time.

"Can I submit an application on behalf of someone else?"

We recognize there may be barriers that prevent someone from submitting an application on their own without help. You may submit an application on behalf of someone else only if you are working directly with the applicant and clearly reference their involvement in completing the application. (For example, if you are providing technological support, language translation, or other assistance on behalf of the applicant, please note your role and that the applicant is still the primary author of their responses.) However, you may not submit an application without the applicant's involvement. (For example, applying for a loved one without their knowledge.) While we understand the desire to surprise someone with a grant, our process builds on the fundamental idea that trans people are our own best advocates: we want to ensure that this belief is reflected throughout the application process.

"Can I apply if I'm currently enrolled with my chosen provider, or if I've used them or another provider in the past?"

Yes, you are still eligible to apply.
  • For current customers: if awarded funding, your 12-month grant period will go into effect immediately. Billing will pause for the duration of the grant period, and will resume again when the grant period ends.
  • For past customers: if awarded funding, your account will be reactivated, and your 12-month grant period will go into effect for your next billing cycle and continue for 12 months. When the grant period ends, billing will resume. (You may have to re-authorize your payment details on file in order to continue your subscription.)

"Can you help me pick which provider is right for me?"

Unfortunately, no. Our team cannot provide personalized recommendations at this time. Choosing which telehealth service is right for you a highly individualized decision. Therefore, you will ultimately be the best judge of who your provider should be. We recommend you read about each of our providers to learn about their differences and make the right decision.

"Can I select more than one provider?"

No. As part of our application period, we require you select the provider you wish to work with. Your choice on which provider you choose will not impact your likelihood of being selected as a recipient.

"If awarded a grant, can I switch providers?"

There may be instances where recipients want to (or need to) switch telehealth providers based on changing life circumstances or transition needs that impact healthcare coverage. We will evaluate these requests on a case-by-case basis.

"What will happen if I'm awarded and my state bans HRT or other gender-affirming care? "

Point of Pride meets regularly with our care providers to ensure ongoing access to care to the best of our ability. In the event that your state passes legislation limiting your access to gender affirming care, especially HRT, we will reach out to you on a case-by-case basis letting you know what our plan is to assist you. Unfortunately because of the state-by-state nature of these laws, it is difficult for us to make preparations until laws are in the works and we have the opportunity to read the text and determine its impact.

"Can I apply for my care while being a support person for someone else's application?"

Yes, you can be both an applicant for your own application and a support person for someone else's application during the same cycle.

"I've received support from Point of Pride in the past. Can I apply?"

Yes, you can apply if you have already received funding or support through any of Point of Pride’s programs. If you received a grant through the Electrolysis Support Fund, you'll be invited to apply for a Renewal Award once you have used at least 90% of your current grant award.

Electrolysis Support Fund

"Are there age requirements?"

You must be at least 18 years old to apply. If you are under 18, we require consent from a parent or legal guardian (who will be required to be listed as your support person in your application) as well as your hair removal providers. There is no upper limit for age.

"Can I apply if I've already had, or am currently having, hair removal sessions?"

Yes. Please note this information in your application.

"Can I apply if I'm seeking hair removal on an area other than my face, neck, or in preparation for surgery?"

Unfortunately, no. This program only covers support for hair removal services on the face and neck, or areas in preparation for a gender-affirming surgery.

"Can I apply if I'm a trans masculine person?"

Yes. You may apply if you are seeking hair removal on an area of your body in preparation for bottom surgery (phalloplasty or metoidioplasty) and have a surgery date scheduled.

"When will I receive a response about my application?"

You will receive an email from an "@pointofpride.org" account about 2 months from when the application cycle ends. (Please check your spam folder and the quota limit on your inbox to make sure it hasn’t been filtered or bounced back. You may need to search for email accounts that end in “@pointofpride.org” or update your settings to allow emails from “@pointofpride.org” accounts.)

"When are recipients selected?"

Typically, recipients are selected and announced about 3-4 months from when the application cycle ends. We are a primarily volunteer-operated non-profit, so sometimes it can take longer as we process the high volume of applications. We appreciate your patience!

"I have questions about hair removal. Where can I learn more?"

For general information about the process of electrolysis and other permanent hair removal options, we recommend reading our resource guide, Electrolysis vs. Laser Hair Removal: An Intro for Trans Folks.

"I've missed the application window deadline. Can I submit a late application?"

Unfortunately, no. Please apply during our next application cycle.

"Can I apply this cycle if I have applied in the past?"

Yes, you are welcome to submit an application every cycle.

"Can I submit an application on behalf of someone else?"

We recognize there may be barriers that prevent someone from submitting an application on their own without help. You may submit an application on behalf of someone else only if you are working directly with the applicant and clearly reference their involvement in completing the application. (For example, if you are providing technological support, language translation, or other assistance on behalf of the applicant, please note your role and that the applicant is still the primary author of their responses.) However, you may not submit an application without the applicant's involvement. (For example, applying for a loved one without their knowledge.) While we understand the desire to surprise someone with a grant, our process builds on the fundamental idea that trans people are our own best advocates: we want to ensure that this belief is reflected throughout the application process.

"Can grants be used for laser hair removal services?"

Yes; while "Electrolysis" is in the name of this grant program, you may apply if you are seeking laser hair removal, electrolysis, or a combination of the two types of services.

"What if I am unsure whether laser or electrolysis is right for me?"

Our grants cover any type of hair removal service, including laser hair removal and electrolysis. You may still apply if you are unsure what type is right for you. Grants are applicable if your provider recommends you do both types of services, or if you are doing one type of service and wish to switch to the other.

"If awarded a grant, can I switch the type of hair removal service I need?"

Yes. Our grants are flexible as hair care removal is a highly personalized experience that can be influenced by many factors. Grants are still applicable if you are doing one type of service (for example, laser hair removal) and wish to switch to another (for example, electrolysis.)

"Can I apply for my care while being a support person for someone else's application?"

Yes, you can be both an applicant for your own application and a support person for someone else's application during the same cycle.

"I've received support from Point of Pride in the past. Can I apply?"

Yes, you can apply if you have already received funding or support through any of Point of Pride’s programs. If you received a grant through the Electrolysis Support Fund, you'll be invited to apply for a Renewal Award once you have used at least 90% of your current grant award.

"I live outside the United States. Can I apply?"

Yes, you are welcome to apply if you live outside the United States. Due to our non-profit status, however, all hair removal services must be performed in the United States and its territories. That means in order to apply, you have to be physically and financially able to travel to the US for your care. This often means international applicants live in Canada or Mexico close to the US border, or are students/employees in the US for an extended period of time. At this time, our grants cannot be applied to travel, lodging, or other logistical expenses.

Thrive Fund

"Can I apply if I have health insurance?"

Yes. Please note this information in your application. Note that we do not have any requirements like that you need to have attempted coverage in the past, you need to have received a denial letter, or anything like that. We recognize there are many scenarios in which you may have inclusive healthcare coverage and still cannot use your insurance.

"Can I snail-mail you my application?"

No, we can not accept any materials sent through the mail. All documents must be uploaded via our online form.

"Can I send you a letter of recommendation?"

No, letters of recommendation are not accepted at this time.

"Can I submit an application on behalf of someone else?"

We recognize there may be barriers that prevent someone from submitting an application on their own without help. You may submit an application on behalf of someone else only if you are working directly with the applicant and clearly reference their involvement in completing the application. (For example, if you are providing technological support, language translation, or other assistance on behalf of the applicant, please note your role and that the applicant is still the primary author of their responses.) However, you may not submit an application without the applicant's involvement. (For example, applying for a loved one without their knowledge.) While we understand the desire to surprise someone with a grant, our process builds on the fundamental idea that trans people are our own best advocates: we want to ensure that this belief is reflected throughout the application process.

"How can I submit a high-quality application?"

We strongly encourage you to review our Instruction Packet, which walks you through each question of the application with tips. Ultimately, our reviewers are looking for thorough responses that answer each question with specific examples and detailed explanations. 

"Can you help me find a provider?"

Unfortunately, no. Our team does not have the expertise or ability to provide referrals or recommendations for providers. Every person's healthcare goals and priorities are unique, so selecting a provider becomes a highly individualized decision. Therefore, you will ultimately be the best judge of who your provider should be. We recommend that you reach out to local LGBTQ+ centers and trans support groups, as well as your current healthcare providers and/or insurance company (if applicable), for recommendations to help you as you research.

"If Point of Pride needs to pay me directly (as opposed to a retailer or provider), what tax or income implications does this mean for me?"

It is extremely rare that we pay recipients directly. In the rare instances that we do, we communicate this information with you before acceptance of a grant award.

If payment to you exceeds $600.00 in a tax year, Point of Pride may be required to report the payment(s) to the IRS. If Point of Pride must report payments, you will be notified via email before exceeding the $600.00 threshold and may be required to fill out an IRS form W-9, which will require your social security number. If you choose not to provide the form W-9, Point of Pride will not issue any further payments beyond $599.00 payment. It is your responsibility to report all income to the IRS on required tax forms.

Any payments made in this manner may count as income and may affect income-driven statuses, including, but not limited to, your disability or social security benefits and your income tax bracket. Point of Pride recommends that you consult with a tax or benefits professional familiar with your unique situation and benefits before accepting payments through this program. It is your responsibility to report all income to the IRS on required tax forms.

"Is ____ an eligible healthcare need?"

Yes, so long as it is not for surgery, HRT, permanent hair removal services, free chest binders, and free femme shapewear garments. For those types of care, we require you to please apply through our respective programs. As a reminder, the Thrive Fund prioritizes purchases or services that happen one time or have clearly defined start and end dates, though you may still apply if you are seeking ongoing services.

"Can I apply if I'm not 18 years old?"

Yes. If you’re under 18, you will be required to list your parent or legal guardian as a support person on your application. Depending on the type of care or service you request, we may require additional information and/or consent from your guardian(s.) If that is the case, we will contact you to request signed documentation from your guardian(s.)  

"Can I apply if I live outside the United States?"

Due to our non-profit status, at this time, the Thrive Fund is limited to applicants who live in the United States. We hope to expand some or all coverage to serve people outside of the US in the future.

"When will I receive a response about my application?"

You will receive an email from an "@pointofpride.org" account in 4-12 weeks following the end of the application period. (Please check your spam folder and the quota limit on your inbox to make sure it hasn’t been filtered or bounced back. You may need to search for email accounts that end in “@pointofpride.org” or update your settings to allow emails from “@pointofpride.org” accounts.)

"When are recipients selected?"

Typically, recipients are selected within 4-12 weeks of the application cycle ending. Our non-profit is primarily volunteer-operated, so sometimes it can take longer as we process the high volume of applications. We appreciate your patience!

"Can I submit more than one application per period?"

We recognize so many of us have multiple, concurrent healthcare needs. However, we only accept one application for a single need per funding cycle.

If you are not selected for funding, you are welcome to apply again in the future. 2024 marks the first year of this pilot program, so please stay tuned for dates and any changes to the funding parameters of the program.

If you are selected for funding, you are welcome to apply again in the future but for a different healthcare need.

"I am a provider or retailer. Can I submit an application so I can provide services or goods for free to the community?"

Unfortunately, no. At this time, Point of Pride only awards financial assistance to individuals seeking aid for themselves.

Free Chest Binders

"What kind of binder will I receive?"

95% of the binders we mail out are new or gently used binders from one of the following manufacturers: For Them, gc2b, Spectrum Outfitters, TomboyX, and Underworks. We allow you to select your preferred manufacturer, size, style (half or full) and color, but we can’t always guarantee that you'll receive the style or color you request. We guarantee you’ll receive a binder in the size you need and by the manufacturer you select, since each manufacturer uses a unique size chart.

"What does packaging look like?"

Packaging for our mailed garments is extremely discreet. Your items will be shipped in a plain white mailing envelope. The sender’s name is “Point of Pride.” Nothing with the words “LGBT” or “trans” appear on the packaging. To comply with US Postal Regulations, we cannot change the sender name on the package.

PointOfPride_Packaging_FreeChestBinder

The package is flexible and will fit inside of most PO Boxes. For street address deliveries, it is usually left inside the mailbox (or on the porch/inside the door in the rare event that the mailbox is too small). Signature is not required.

US Recipients: USPS offers a product called Informed Delivery, which will alert the account holder of upcoming mail and packages to the registered address. These notifications sometimes become available as soon as the label is generated. There is no way for us to be able to tell if an address is registered for Informed Delivery and if someone is receiving notifications about upcoming packages.

If international, the customs form will list the contents as an “undershirt” and will have the item marked as a gift, but you’ll still want to check with your country’s customs office for how the customs process may affect you. Many of the provided tracking numbers stop working once the package leaves the US, so you may want to check with your local postal service to determine the best method for tracking your package once it’s left the US.

The package will contain your binder, an informational card on safer binding techniques, 1-2 stickers, and a note of support meant to brighten your day (written by other trans people, volunteers, and community members.)

"How do I wash or care for my garment?"

We recommend you follow your binder manufacturer's instructions, which typically instruct you to hand wash and hang to dry by air. You can use cold or warm water to wash your binder. Lather it with some dish soap or laundry detergent, then rinse thoroughly. If you wash it in the evening and leave it out to dry, it should ready to wear by morning. If you need to dry it using a machine, use a delicates bag to ensure your binder doesn’t get damaged or caught on other clothes.

"Can I have my binder shipped to a trusted friend or relative?"

Yes. We can ship your binder to a friend, family member, or another trusted person. Please complete the application with your friend’s mailing address, but put your information (such as your email address) for all other fields on the form. Please ensure you have the permission of your friend or relative before listing their address on your request.

"Can I have my binder shipped to a post office?"

Yes. We can ship to any valid mailing address. However, it is your responsibility to contact your local postal service and determine exactly how they need the address to be listed on your envelope in order for it to arrive successfully and be available for you to pick it up. Be sure to ask if they have any requirements such as needing to show ID when picking up your package, so that the name on your package matches the name on your ID.

"I already have a binder that no longer fits and I need a different size. Do you offer exchanges?"

Unfortunately, no. We do not have the ability to exchange your binder for a different sized one. We recommend reaching out to your local LGBTQ+ center, if possible, to see if they are aware of binder swaps in your area.

"I have a medical condition. Is it safe for me to use a binder?"

We are not, nor do we claim to be, healthcare providers or medical experts in any capacity. We also recognize that there is appallingly little research done that recognizes our community and that for many of our applicants, there are significant barriers to accessing knowledgable and affirming care. As much as we empathize with the challenges faced by so many in our community, we are unable to make any recommendations whatsoever for individuals with pre-existing conditions, as that would be outside the scope of our ability to support. We simply do not have the resources to provide any recommendations specific to your unique situation and we firmly believe that your health is too important to entrust to someone who does not have the knowledge and experience required to support you. If possible, we encourage you to speak directly with your healthcare provider.

"I don't need a binder anymore. How can I cancel my request?"

If you no longer need a binder, you may cancel your request here.

"Is there an age requirement?"

No. Anyone of any age may submit a request. However, in order to comply with U.S. state and federal regulations, if you are 13 years of age or younger, we can only accept your request with the consent of your parent or legal guardian. Please note that you have consent in the written responses of your application.

"Is shipping free?"

Yes, Point of Pride pays for all shipping and processing fees. (For international recipients, your country may assess additional/separate fees, tariffs, or taxes; these expenses cannot be paid for or reimbursed by Point of Pride. We'll remind you to double-check your country's customs policy when you request your garment.)

"Do you ship internationally?"

Yes. We are fully international and can ship anywhere USPS will deliver.

"Can I get more than one binder?"

While we understand many of us prefer or need multiple binders, we also must balance that with the knowledge that many of the folks on our waiting list don’t have access to a single binder. As a result, we limit our program to one free binder per household. If there are extenuating circumstances or multiple people living in a single household who each require a binder, please contact us before filling out the request form.

The following reasons do not constitute extenuating circumstances:
  • Multiple binders for laundry day
  • Multiple colors needed/wanted
  • Multiple sizes needed/wanted

"My binder is damaged or worn out. What is your replacement policy?"

Point of Pride will replace a damaged binder if:
  • you received it through us in the mail (In other words, we cannot replace binders you purchased or received from other non-profit organizations, businesses, or programs. We also cannot replace binders you claimed from a Point of Pride table at in-person LGBTQ+ events);
  • your binder was delivered within the last 24 months;
  • you contact us. We will ask you to email 2-3 photos that show your binder is no longer wearable or safe.
If our team confirms you qualify for replacement, we'll double-check your shipping and sizing information, and then mail your new binder within 2 weeks to minimize your wait time. You'll receive another email with a tracking number for your package. Please do not mail us your damaged or worn out binder. 

Free Femme Shapewear

"What kind of garment will I receive?"

We source hipster and thong garments from our friends at Origami Customs and urBasics. We allow you to select your preferred manufacturer, size, style (hipster, panty or thong) and color, but we can’t always guarantee that you'll receive the style or color you request. We guarantee you’ll receive a gaff in the size you need and by the manufacturer you select, since each manufacturer uses a unique size chart.

"What does packaging look like?"

Packaging for our mailed garments is extremely discreet. Your items will be shipped in a plain white mailing envelope. The sender’s name is “Point of Pride.” Nothing with the words “LGBT” or “trans” appear on the packaging. To comply with U.S. Postal Regulations, we cannot change the sender name on the package.

PointOfPride_Packaging_FreeFemmeShapewear

The package is flexible and will fit inside of most PO Boxes. For street address deliveries, it is usually left inside the mailbox (or on the porch/inside the door in the rare event that the mailbox is too small). Signature is not required.

US Recipients: USPS offers a product called Informed Delivery, which will alert the account holder of upcoming mail and packages to the registered address. These notifications sometimes become available as soon as the label is generated. There is no way for us to be able to tell if an address is registered for Informed Delivery and if someone is receiving notifications about upcoming packages.

If international, the customs form will list the contents as “underwear” and will have the item marked as a gift, but you’ll still want to check with your country’s customs office for how the customs process may affect you. Many of the provided tracking numbers stop working once the package leaves the US, so you may want to check with your local postal service to determine the best method for tracking your package once it’s left the US.

The package will contain your garment, an informational card on safer tucking techniques, 1-2 stickers, and a note of support meant to brighten your day (written by other trans people, volunteers, and community members.)

"How do I wash or care for my garment?"

We recommend you follow your gaff manufacturer's instructions, which typically instruct you to wash in cold water and hang to dry by air.  If you need to dry it using a machine, use a delicates bag to ensure your gaff doesn’t get damaged or caught on other clothes.

"Can I have my shapewear shipped to a trusted friend or relative?"

Yes. We can ship your garment to a friend, family member, or another trusted person. Please complete the application with your friend’s mailing address, but put your information (such as your email address) for all other fields on the form. Please ensure you have the permission of your friend or relative before listing their address on your request.

"Can I have my shapewear shipped to a post office?"

Yes. We can ship to any valid mailing address. However, it is your responsibility to contact your local postal service and determine exactly how they need the address to be listed on your envelope in order for it to arrive successfully and be available for you to pick it up. Be sure to ask if they have any requirements such as needing to show ID when picking up your package, so that the name on your package matches the name on your ID.

"I have a medical condition. Is it safe for me to use a tucking undergarment?"

We are not, nor do we claim to be, healthcare providers or medical experts in any capacity. We also recognize that there is appallingly little research done that recognizes our community and that for many of our applicants, there are significant barriers to accessing knowledgable and affirming care. As much as we empathize with the challenges faced by so many in our community, we are unable to make any recommendations whatsoever for individuals with pre-existing conditions, as that would be outside the scope of our ability to support. We simply do not have the resources to provide any recommendations specific to your unique situation and we firmly believe that your health is too important to entrust to someone who does not have the knowledge and experience required to support you. If possible, we encourage you to speak directly with your healthcare provider.

"I don't need a garment anymore. How can I cancel my request?"

If you no longer need shapewear, you may cancel your request here.

"Is there an age requirement?"

No. Anyone of any age may submit a request. However, in order to comply with U.S. state and federal regulations, if you are 13 years of age or younger, we can only accept your request with the consent of your parent or legal guardian. Please note that you have consent in the written responses of your application.

"Is shipping free?"

Yes, Point of Pride pays for all shipping and processing fees. (For international recipients, your country may assess additional/separate fees, tariffs, or taxes; these expenses cannot be paid for or reimbursed by Point of Pride. We'll remind you to double-check your country's customs policy when you request your garment.)

"Do you ship internationally?"

Yes. We are fully international and can ship anywhere USPS will deliver.

"Can I get more than one gaff?"

While we understand many of us prefer or need multiple garments, we also must balance that with the knowledge that many of the folks on our waiting list don’t have access to a single garment. As a result, we limit our program to one free femme shapewear garment per household. If there are extenuating circumstances or multiple people living in a single household who each require a gaff, please contact us before filling out the request form.

The following reasons do not constitute extenuating circumstances:
  • Multiple gaffs for laundry day
  • Multiple colors needed/wanted
  • Multiple sizes needed/wanted