Meet Raeann
Raeann's story
Electrolysis Support Fund recipient
Raeann (she/her) is a 51-year-old trans woman currently facing significant barriers to stability and healthcare. Despite holding two graduate degrees, she lives in a small Iowa town where being transgender, and having two past drug felonies makes finding employment nearly impossible. This has led to periods of homelessness, and she and her partner, who is disabled and unable to work, remain at high risk of losing housing again.
Raeann has been on HRT for over six years, yet facial hair remains a persistent source of deep dysphoria. She often shaves multiple times a day, which is both physically and emotionally exhausting. Access to free hair removal services would be life-changing—helping to ease her daily distress and serving as a vital step toward finally being able to undergo gender-confirming surgery.
Raeann's timeline
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Award Granted
April 22, 2025
Raeann was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!
Grant details
$2,375 towards gender-affirming care.
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Help us support more people like Raeann get the care they need and deserve.
About Hair Removal: Femme Award
On average, it costs $2,300+ for Raeann'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.