Meet Octavia
Octavia's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Octavia (she/her) is a 24-year-old trans femme seeking hair removal services. Acquiring such services is a challenge to her financially, as she is unemployed and not stably housed.
Octavia is a current college student acquiring a degree in statistical and other quantitative methods. She aspires to go on to work either in the field of economics or the field of sociology. She looks forward to the days after getting hair removal, to reclaiming the time and energy that would otherwise be spent on thinking about and removing the hair on her face.
Octavia's timeline
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Award Granted
April 7, 2023
Octavia was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!
Grant details
$1,000 towards gender-affirming care.
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About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Octavia'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.