Meet Daphne
Daphne's story
Thrive Fund recipient
Daphne (she/her) is a recipient of the Thrive Fund, seeking support for her legal name change. Living with chronic illnesses, Daphne faces significant barriers to steady employment and transportation. Without a vehicle, she struggles to access job opportunities and essential services, relying primarily on rental assistance programs and Medicaid for healthcare.
For Daphne, obtaining proper identification is deeply personal and transformative. As she explains, "With getting the name change and everything, I will finally be able to be myself. I wouldn't be living a lie." This support will help Daphne reduce anxiety associated with daily tasks, like borrowing a car and facing mismatched identification during routine stops.
Having started hormone replacement therapy in July 2023, Daphne already feels a significant positive shift in her mental health and sense of self. She says, "Having the documents proving that I am me would help me look in the mirror and like what I see. I would finally be able to be free and who I truly am."
Daphne's timeline
Grant details
$1,440 towards gender-affirming care.
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About Name Change/ID Update
On average, it costs $350+ for Daphne's care.
- What is it?
- Before care
- Accessibility
- After care
What is it?
Updating legal documents such as a name change or updating gender markers on IDs allows trans individuals to align their official records with their gender identity. This often includes changes to a driver’s license, passport, Social Security records, and birth certificates.
What is life like for a person who needs this care?
Trans folks with IDs that do not reflect their gender identity often face barriers, including job discrimination, housing issues, and challenges when accessing healthcare or traveling. This can lead to a constant need to explain themselves and increases their risk of harassment or discrimination.
How accessible is it for trans folks to receive this care?
The process and cost vary by state or country, with fees for court orders, certified copies, and updates to multiple documents. Many trans people also face legal, bureaucratic, or discriminatory hurdles, especially in states with restrictive policies. Financial costs can be prohibitive for those with limited resources.
What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?
Having accurate IDs improves safety, reduces stress, and provides greater freedom and confidence in daily life. It allows trans individuals to navigate healthcare, public spaces, job applications, and travel without fear of being outed or misgendered.