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Meet Sierra

Sierra

Sierra's story

HRT Access Fund recipient

Electrolysis Support Fund recipient

Sierra (she/her) is a 40-year-old BIPOC trans woman working hard to rebuild her life after financial hardship. After being laid off shortly after the pandemic, she relied on freelance work to get by and often juggling credit card debt just to keep her home. Though she has since secured a job, her income still barely covers basic living expenses, and she’s now facing the possibility of bankruptcy as she works to regain financial stability.

Despite the challenges, Sierra continues to push forward. She currently works from home but often avoids going out due to the anxiety of being "clocked". The emotional toll of facial dysphoria is heavy, and accessing electrolysis would be truly life-changing. It would not only reduce the mental strain she faces daily but also help her regain confidence, safety, and peace of mind as she navigates the world as her authentic self.

Sierra's timeline

  • Award Granted

    April 13, 2025

    Sierra was awarded a grant toward permanent hair removal!
  • Care Received

    April 15, 2025

    A payment has been made toward Sierra's permanent hair removal!
  • Care Received

    May 22, 2025

    A payment has been made toward Sierra's permanent hair removal!

Grant details

$6,230.50 towards gender-affirming care.





About Estrogen+

On average, it costs $1,700+/year for Sierra's 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.

About Hair Removal: Femme Award

On average, it costs $2,300+ for Sierra's 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.