Meet Melanie
Melanie's story
HRT Access Fund recipient
Melanie (she/her) is a young trans woman who recently moved to Florida, where in-person HRT options are scarce and Medicaid does not cover gender-affirming care. Her supplies are running low, and after losing her job, paying out of pocket has become impossible. Melanie cares for her young nephew and pays for their living expenses, so her limited funds go to family and housing before medical needs. Persistent discrimination has made finding stable work and healthcare even harder.
Receiving 12 months of HRT support would be life-changing: it would let Melanie continue living as herself, stabilize her mental health, and keep her safe. “I need my hormones to survive — receiving 12 months of HRT support would mean the world to me,” she shared.
Melanie's timeline
-
Award Granted
August 17, 2025
Melanie has been granted an HRT Access Fund award! -
HRT Onboarding Date
September 5, 2025
Melanie has been onboarded by their HRT Provider!
Grant details
$1,320 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Melanie get the care they need and deserve.
About Estrogen+
On average, it costs $1,700+/year for Melanie's care.
- What is it?
- Accessibility
- After care
What is it?
Estrogen+ refers to the gender-affirming hormone replacement therapy (HRT) methods that some trans women, trans femme, and non-binary people take that result in physical changes which align with their gender identity. Every person's preferences and personal healthcare needs vary, so this can include oral medications, injections, and transdermal patches.
How accessible is it for trans folks to receive this care?
For trans folks who live in states most impacted by anti-trans healthcare legislation, it can be extremely difficult to find a knowledgeable, trans-affirming provider as well as access prescription medication. Many insurance plans do not cover HRT. For trans folks without insurance coverage, the ongoing out-of-pocket expense can be challenging.
What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?
Estogen+ introduces a wide range of feminizing physical, emotional, and psychological changes that align with their gender identity. This often leads to a more positive emotional well-being, increased confidence, increased safety when in public, and better opportunities at employment and more.