Meet Jem
Jem's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Jem (she/they) is a BIPOC nonbinary trans femme currently navigating unemployment and financial hardship. They live with their partner, who is the primary provider, and together they live paycheck to paycheck. After experiencing a sudden and debilitating onset of anxiety, Jem has been unable to work and is now focusing on healing and regaining stability.
Their last job ended in discrimination and distress—one of many painful experiences faced as a POC trans woman. “I was left with no choice but to leave for my peace of mind,” Jem shares. For now, they manage their facial hair through shaving, a process that brings intense dysphoria and discomfort.
Jem hopes that permanent hair removal will bring renewed confidence and a greater sense of safety—making it easier to seek employment again and engage more fully in everyday life. For them, this care is not only about appearance, but about reclaiming self-worth, peace, and the ability to move forward.
Jem's timeline
-
Award Granted
April 14, 2025
Jem was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal! -
Care Received
April 28, 2025
A payment has been made toward Jem's permanent hair removal!
Grant details
$2,375 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Jem get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Jem'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.