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.
Dorcas's family
access_time 8 months ago
Dorcas received a $421 initial payment.
"Receiving the transfers has completely turned my life around. Two years ago, I was forced to drop out of primary school due to an early pregnancy, and it became extremely challenging to support myself and my child. I relied heavily on my parents and often had to ask for assistance from others for basic necessities. However, my parent, being a subsistence farmer, could only provide limited support. To improve my situation, I made the decision to enroll in a college to study hairdressing. The transfer helped me pay my tuition, allowing me to continue my education without worrying about fees. I am confident that I will acquire valuable hairdressing skills that will enable me to seek employment or open my own salon. Additionally, I have started a clothing business from home and although I haven't been able to rent a space yet, the profits have significantly improved my financial situation. I am no longer dependent on others and I am able to meet my basic needs and support my child without having to ask for help."
Jane's family
access_time 8 months ago
Jane received a $140 initial payment.
"Our area is ideal for keeping livestock, and not having any animals of my own left me feeling unsettled. I've always seen owning livestock as a way to build wealth, especially since I mainly earn a living as a casual laborer on other people's farms. When I received my first payment, I spent $106 on two sheep and two chickens, which I am now raising. I see them as valuable assets that I can sell for money in case of financial needs because they can multiply. I also needed some nice seating for my home, so I bought two plastic chairs for $6, which has made a big difference in my household. Now, my family and visitors have comfortable chairs. I bought food and new clothes for my family with the remaining money. Despite my financial challenges, I am grateful that my family has enough food to eat. We are now able to have three meals a day without much difficulty. If I had to rely solely on my income to provide for my family, we would likely be skipping meals. I am thankful that the payment has lifted this burden, and even if I fail to find work, my family will not go hungry."
John's family
access_time 8 months ago
John received a $346 third payment.
"I never had the chance to buy barbed wire and wire mesh, something I had always dreamed of but couldn't afford. Thanks to your unconditional cash, I was finally able to do so. Please continue your great work in helping other people."
Dama's family
access_time 8 months ago
Dama received a $26 twenty-second payment.
"I plan on purchasing a water tank costing $25 to help me store water. Currently, I use a 20-liter jerrican to store water for home use, but these jerricans store very little water. When the water pans run out, I face challenges accessing enough water. A large water tank will allow me to store more water for longer periods. Additionally, I plan on purchasing more livestock with the amount I save from our savings group. I am very appreciative of the financial support I am receiving from the transfers, which is helping me improve my quality of life."
Kanze's family
access_time 8 months ago
Kanze received a $26 twenty-second payment.
"My goal in the coming year and beyond is to invest a portion of my subsequent transfers in purchasing livestock. Livestock are a valuable asset for my future and will help me accumulate wealth. Once they multiply, I will have the opportunity to sell some and use the money to take care of my immediate needs. To achieve this, I joined a savings group where I save $10 every month. Once the money I have saved is enough, I can use it to purchase a goat. I am very happy and appreciate the financial support from the transfers, which have significantly uplifted my life."
Priscillar's family
access_time 8 months ago
Priscillar received a $26 twenty-sixth payment.
"My major financial burden is taking care of my four children who are still in school. For this reason, I have been thinking of a lasting solution and decided to expand my charcoal business. It is a good business, especially when you have a good stock. Buying in bulk is advantageous because you receive a discount compared to buying in small quantities. Additionally, this business is very marketable because many people use charcoal, particularly those who run businesses like cooking mandazis. Once I expand, I expect to make a good profit. These profits will enable me to support my family's basic needs, such as buying food and paying school fees. I am optimistic that through my transfers, I will save gradually and eventually achieve my dream business goal."
Zainab's family
access_time 8 months ago
Zainab received a $26 twenty-second payment.
"I am planning to start a business buying and selling charcoal and vegetables because working at a hotel in rural areas offers very minimal pay, making it difficult to improve our financial situation. I chose the charcoal and vegetable business because the market is not saturated, and due to the harsh weather, finding vegetables in our area is challenging. I plan to buy vegetables where they are available and sell them locally. I intend to start saving part of my transfer in a chama to facilitate this business venture. I am truly appreciative of the great support from GiveDirectly, which has significantly improved my life and enabled me to better support my family's needs."
Kadzo's family
access_time 8 months ago
Kadzo received a $26 twenty-second payment.
"In the coming year and beyond, my sole focus is saving for my son's college fees. I run a charcoal business to support my children's basic needs. I plan to save part of my income from the charcoal business and combine it with a portion of my monthly transfers and savings account. I believe education is the key to success, and by ensuring my son receives the best education, he will be able to support himself and his younger siblings in the future. I am optimistic about achieving this goal, as I have already saved up to $320. I am truly grateful to GiveDirectly for their financial support, as these transfers have significantly relieved my financial burden."
Rukia's family
access_time 8 months ago
Rukia received a $26 twenty-second payment.
"My biggest aspiration is to expand my livestock holdings, particularly goats, right here on my homestead. I firmly believe that this endeavour will bring significant benefits, especially for my children, who are currently attending primary school. My aim is to accumulate tangible assets that can facilitate our journey through their educational milestones, from transitioning into high school to eventually pursuing higher education in college. By building up a robust herd of goats, I envision not only ensuring a stable income but also creating a valuable resource that can be leveraged to cover their school fees effortlessly. So, each goat I acquire isn't just an animal; it's a step closer to securing a brighter future for my children."
Elizabeth's family
access_time 8 months ago
Elizabeth received a $26 twenty-second payment.
"My main focus is on accomplishing a significant goal: building a new house. I strongly feel the need for a separate space for myself and my teenage children. As they grow older, I believe they deserve privacy and independence, which having their own house can provide. Moreover, I truly believe that having their own space will boost their self-esteem and confidence, allowing them to flourish in their own way. It's essential for their growth and development, and I'm committed to making it happen. Building this new house isn't just about providing physical shelter; it's about creating a nurturing environment where my children can thrive emotionally and mentally. I'm determined to work hard and make this dream a reality for the betterment of my family."