Meet Clara
Clara's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Clara (she/her) is an Indigenous trans woman facing ongoing barriers to stability and care. Despite actively applying to jobs she’s qualified for, she remains unemployed, and her chronic illnesses limit the kind of work she’s able to do. Clara lives alone in an apartment and continues to struggle with self-care.
Her Medicaid does not cover gender-affirming hair removal, which poses both physical and emotional challenges. Clara shares that her facial hair grows back quickly and is often visible within a day—even immediately after shaving. She explains that shaving is difficult due to shaky hands and memory challenges “It could be dangerous where I live,” she says, challenged by living in a conservative area. Access to electrolysis would be a vital step toward safety, comfort, and confidence in her day-to-day life.
Clara's timeline
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Award Granted
April 21, 2025
Clara was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!
Grant details
$2,125 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Clara get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Clara'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.