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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1 year ago
Mercy
received a $287 second payment.
"My husband and I depend on farming, supplemented by my part-time work at the game reserve, and we are fortunate to have seven children. To safeguard our land from intrusion by wild animals, I made the decision to fence it. With our second transfer, we purchased wire mesh totaling $180 and chain link fencing worth $48. Additionally, I invested $56 in buying chicks and $30 for chick mash. I also allocated funds for maize, spending $37, and sent $25 to support my son's upkeep at school. Furthermore, I set aside $20 in savings and purchased shoes worth $5. I accomplished these goals, which were previously hindered by financial constraints. I am immensely grateful to GiveDirectly for making this significant milestone possible."
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1 year ago
Sylvia
received a $287 second payment.
"The unconditional nature of the funds allowed us the flexibility to allocate them based on our specific needs. As I evaluate the impact, I find no areas that need correction in their approach to their work. This has proven to be a valuable aspect, ensuring that the assistance received aligns seamlessly with our unique requirements. I am grateful for the thoughtful and effective support that has been provided, contributing positively to our situation."
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1 year ago
Veronica
received a $115 initial payment.
"I have a vivid recollection of that particular day. It was late in the evening, and I had taken a nap outdoors beneath a tree, seeking refuge from the intense sun following a fatiguing day spent working on my neighbor's farm. Out of the blue, my phone, which I had placed on the ground, emitted a sound indicating the arrival of a message. Retrieving it, I discovered an SMS that brought immense joy – the promised funds from GD had finally arrived. Overwhelmed with happiness, I immediately knelt down in gratitude, thanking God for the transfer. Shortly afterward, I shared the delightful news with my family of five, who were equally elated. We were aware that this financial boost would make a substantial difference in our lives."
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1 year ago
Paulina
received a $287 second payment.
"Upon receiving the first transfer from GiveDirectly, I had enlisted a lot that I wanted to accomplish, prioritizing the well-being of my family of four. I spent $68 on essential food items, securing a sack of maize, beans, and other household consumables. Recognizing the need for enhanced security and livestock management, I invested $43 in acquiring a barbed wire to fence around my piece of land, facilitating easier grazing and preventing stray goats from the neighborhood. Addressing a significant cultural milestone, I dedicated funds to cover my son's circumcision expenses, including a fee of $8, a sack of maize worth $43, and the purchase of a goat for $85—a customary and essential rite of passage for every teenage boy. To ensure my children's well-being and address household needs, I wisely utilized the remaining $96 on clothing and essential household goods. The support from GiveDirectly has been instrumental, and I look forward to making further meaningful investments with the subsequent transfers, expressing my gratitude for the positive impact on my family's life."
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1 year ago
Francis
received a $351 initial payment.
"Obtaining a motorcycle on credit for business was a pivotal decision, despite the financial strain it imposed. Initially, earning around $25 daily, I struggled to balance loan repayments and essential family expenses, causing immense stress. The looming threat of repossession compounded this pressure, often leaving me mentally absent at home which was putting a strain in my family. Thanks to the support from GiveDirectly, I set aside a portion of the transfer to alleviate immediate family needs while diligently working towards clearing the loan. This assistance has been a tremendous relief, allowing me to be more present both physically and mentally at home and thus making my family happy."
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1 year ago
Sidi
received a $351 initial payment.
"Balancing the responsibilities of supporting dependents without a stable job has been a weighty burden, especially while also saving for my home—constantly repairing and salvaging to create a livable space. As the construction of my house progresses positively, our income from charcoal burning and farm labor can now shift towards activities that generate sustainable earnings for us. This shift allows me to allocate a portion of my earnings to savings accounts and invest in productive ventures.
With this change, we're relieved of the constant worry about our next meal. Our hard-earned income is no longer dedicated to house expenses but can now cover our living expenses comfortably. This shift gives us the chance to enjoy decent meals and plan for the future without the persistent concern about our daily sustenance."
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1 year ago
Dama
received a $22 twenty-second payment.
"In order to assist my husband, I intend to use my upcoming transfer to acquire an additional goat, supplementing the two that are currently in my possession. Subsequently, as they multiply, I plan to sell some of them to contribute to my husband's household expenses. The proceeds from the sale of the animals will also aid in covering future school fees for our children, ensuring they receive a quality education and have a brighter future. I am deeply grateful for the financial support, as it has been crucial in meeting my essential needs."
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1 year ago
Rukia
received a $22 twenty-second payment.
"After the passing of my husband, the weighty task of caring for my six school-age children falls entirely on my shoulders. Despite the immense burden, the financial assistance from the transfers has alleviated some of these essential needs, particularly in providing for my children's education. My objective is to accumulate sufficient funds from future transfers to guarantee that all my children can attend school in the upcoming year. I am profoundly grateful for the ongoing financial aid provided by Give Directly."
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1 year ago
Sidi
received a $22 twenty-second payment.
"My primary focus is on completing the construction of a new house to replace my run-down dwelling. To accomplish this, I need to acquire additional building materials, including poles, iron sheets, and nails. This has been a long-held aspiration since my husband's passing. I am thrilled that I will soon realize this dream, all thanks to the financial assistance from the transfers."
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1 year ago
Sidi
received a $22 twenty-second payment.
"Initially, my foray into poultry rearing and selling faced a setback when the single hen I purchased didn't survive. However, with my upcoming transfers, I intend to acquire more hens, and I am hopeful that they will multiply, providing me with an opportunity to generate income through sales. I am pleased that the financial assistance will significantly contribute to realizing this aspiration in the near future."
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