GDLive Newsfeed
We check in with people at each stage of the cash transfer process to see how things are going. Take a look at some of their stories as they appear here in real-time. Learn more about how recipients opt in to share their stories.
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Enrollment
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Transfers
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Completed
Newsfeed > Grace's Profile
Grace's family
Grace
landscapeCountry:
kenya
workOccupation:
Subsistence farming
faceAge:
31
workCampaign
Kenya Large Transfer
There will be no further updates from this completed recipient.
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
53010 KES ($398 USD)
access_time 14 days ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
In the next few months and years, I want to get a big oven for my bakery. Right now, my small oven can only bake 9 loaves of bread at a time. But with a bigger one, I could bake up to 50 loaves in a single batch! This would boost my production and, hopefully, my income too. With more bread to sell, I could even supply to local shops, that would mean more money coming in, which is great because I want to make sure my kids get a good education. I'm counting on my savings from the bakery and a little help from my merry-go-round group savings to help me buy the big oven by the end of the year.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
The project uplifted and empowered me by providing us with the transfer, which enabled me to acquire the oven and become self-employed. Initially, I was without any job, so Givedirectly has helped me tremendously. I appreciate their services, and I believe nothing should be changed
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
My husband works as a house contractor, and sometimes his work isn't steady. But with the recent cash transfer, I was able to do a lot for my family. First, I spent $80 to buy a mattress for my four kids. They used to sleep on the floor, which hurt their backs. They were so happy to finally have a real bed. Then, I used $100 to get a door for our house because It's important for our safety. I also used$100 of the money to pay for my kids' school fees. I don't want them missing out on their education. With a bit left over, I bought food so we wouldn't go hungry. But the best part? I used some of the money to start my own bakery. I've always loved baking, and now I can sell my goods in a shop and even go door-to-door. It's not easy, but on a good day, I can make $12. My bakery helps support my family, especially when my husband's job isn't reliable. I'm grateful for the chance to provide for my loved ones.
 
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($343 USD)
access_time 3 months ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
It was around 3 pm, and I was at home, engrossed in some cleaning chores, when I heard the familiar message tone from my phone. I checked the message and couldn't contain my joy when I saw that the promised cash transfer by GiveDirectly had been sent to my account. This happiness meant the world to me, as it was my first time receiving a substantial amount of $550 at once. I couldn't help but reflect on the days when the largest sum I had ever owned was just $50. The unexpected financial boost filled me with gratitude and a newfound sense of security, providing a glimmer of hope for a brighter future ahead.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
Life used to be tough; there were times when we would go without food for up to at least two days a week. But everything changed when we received a cash transfer from GiveDirectly. Now, we have enough to eat, and it's a relief not to worry about hunger. The impact goes beyond just food; we used to squeeze into a tiny house with my seven children, which was not healthy. However, with the support from GiveDirectly, we were able to afford a bigger house. Our living conditions have improved, and we're better off than before. The newfound space and comfort are like a breath of fresh air, making life feel more manageable for me and my children.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
As a mother of seven, my small house was cramped, and I knew we needed a better place to live. When I received the cash transfer from GiveDirectly, I decided to use it to build a new, two-room mud-wall house for my family. I invested $323 in purchasing 20 iron sheets, building poles, and rafters. I allocated $150 to pay for the services of a contractor who helped with the construction. Now, I am overjoyed to share that the house is complete, and my family is happily settled in our new, more spacious home. The improvement is significant compared to the cramped conditions we endured in our previous dwelling. With the remaining amount, I made sure to buy enough food for my family, bringing a sense of relief and comfort to our lives.
 
Enrolled
access_time 5 months ago
 
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
My family does casual jobs making little income per month and I do subsistence farming. I have seven children who are schooling at Misufini primary. The family lives in a one room house which is not enough and it lacks privacy. It also serves as the kitchen thus making the family clothes dirty because of the soot. I will use $750 to build a two room house for the family and also buy two beds and mattresses. The family currently sleeps on the floor. I will also use $200 to buy five goats as an investment. This will give me a sustainable source of income.
What is the happiest part of your day?
My family last took chapati on 1st January this year. However, In August my husband got a job and earned enough money to buy wheat flour. I prepared enough chapati for the family and we rejoiced. The family celebration brought happiness in my life.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Housing is the challenge I am currently facing in life. I have a family of nine members and all live in a one room house. My first daughter Judy is now grown up and she has to have her own room. I feel embarrassed in the community because it is not good to share a room with such a grown up girl. The house also serves as a kitchen. I feel disturbed psychological.