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Meet Danielle

Danielle's story

Electrolysis Support Fund recipient

Danielle

Danielle (they/them) is a trans femme of color from Oregon. They are living with a disability but cannot afford health insurance or gender-affirming care due to significant financial need. Danielle currently works two jobs that barely covers the cost of their car, rent, and providing for their child.

Danielle writes, “For me, permanent hair removal eliminates my most apparent and immediate ‘male’ marker. It would mean no more scratching and picking at my face, or repeatedly cutting it from shaving up to three times a day. It would eliminate my need for layers of foundation and reveal a face I can accept – a face I can see in the mirror and still want to go outside, and dress in a more subdued way instead of relying on clothing to flag my gender.”

Danielle's timeline

  • Award Granted

    July 19, 2019

    Danielle was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!
  • Care Received

    October 30, 2019

    A payment has been made toward Danielle's permanent hair removal!
  • Care Received

    October 23, 2020

    A payment has been made toward Danielle's permanent hair removal!

Grant details

$1,250 towards gender-affirming care.





About Hair Removal: Femme Award

On average, it costs $2,300+ for Danielle's 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.