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.
Morris's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Morris received a $24 sixth payment.
"Livestock farming has a profound personal significance to me, and I am eager to venture into this project. With the skills and knowledge I possess, I am confident in my ability to excel in raising livestock. As the herd expands and flourishes, it promises to become a reliable source of income through profitable sales in the market. Moreover, the bulls will play a valuable role in preparing my land during the rainy season, adding further value to this endeavor."
Thabu's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Thabu received a $24 fourteenth payment.
"At the year's end, my eldest son will complete his secondary education, a moment that brings immense financial relief. With the expenses reduced, I can redirect the funds towards purchasing livestock and nurturing them to expand our herd. This step will offer an additional source of income, providing a reliable stream of revenue when we decide to sell the livestock. I envision this venture becoming a source of pride, especially as we look ahead to the eventual conclusion of financial aid support in the upcoming years."
Julia's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Julia received a $140 initial payment.
"My spouse and I rely on the irregular and meager income from casual work, such as farming and fetching firewood and water, to make ends meet. With the current economic challenges causing prices to soar, our daily earnings of about $3 are barely sufficient for our basic needs. Often, we find ourselves skipping meals, and this particularly worried me because I have a five-year-old child who needs proper nutrition during this crucial growth stage. Thanks to the transfer, we were able to purchase the essential food items worth $100, bringing a sense of relief that my children would not have to go without food anymore. Additionally, I used $60 of the transfer to partially pay off my two children's tuition arrears. Though there is still a long way to go in clearing the outstanding balance of $500, I am optimistic that the amount I paid will encourage their teacher to allow them to continue attending school until the next transfer arrives. As a ray of hope for the future, I invested $40 in purchasing 10 chicks to start my poultry farming venture. I believe that as they multiply, this endeavor will become a reliable source of income for my family in the long run. I am grateful for the transfer, as it has brought significant positive changes to our lives and given us hope for a better and more secure future."
Elima's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Elima received a $140 initial payment.
"While I was busy tending to my farm in the late evening, my neighbour unexpectedly passed by and joyfully informed me that the GD transfer had been sent. Ecstatic with excitement, I wasted no time and rushed to where I had placed my phone under a nearby tree to verify the news. To my satisfaction, the transfer had indeed arrived as promised. I couldn't contain my happiness, and I found myself jumping with joy. I felt excited at the idea of carrying out my goals, which were dependent on this transfer."
Angeline's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Angeline received a $316 third payment.
"GiveDirectly is doing an excellent job by providing us with unconditional lump-sum transfers. Many individuals have made significant investments using these funds. Some have started businesses to support their families, while others have purchased cattle. Additionally, some people have built proper dwellings to replace their makeshift shelters. The impact of these transfers has truly elevated the living standards in our village."
Chrispus's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Chrispus received a $316 third payment.
"Due to my hand deformity, I am unable to help my wife with farming, making it challenging to be the sole provider for our family. To ease some of her burden, I spent $150 on food for our family of eight to ensure we had enough to eat. I also used $180 of the transfer to pay for my child's school fees in secondary school, ensuring that her arrears were cleared to prevent her from being sent home and to enable her to focus on her studies. It pains me to see her at home while her peers are in school. Additionally, I allocated $100 to purchase three goats, which will add to our small herd and serve as a future source of income. Lastly, I gave the remaining amount to my spouse, allowing her to buy clothes and show appreciation for the valuable work she does in our family."
Kenga's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Kenga received a $24 twenty-second payment.
"In the coming years, I would be happy to reflect on the positive changes brought about by Give Directly's assistance. My main goal is to use the support to construct a new house for my family, providing them with a safer and more comfortable living space. The current one is in a poor state, with one of its walls collapsing due to the continuous rains. Once this is achieved, I have another exciting plan in mind. Since my current location is close to the road, I want to build a rental house. I will occupy one of the rooms and start a hardware business, as there is currently no such business in my village. This venture would not only benefit my family but also provide essential services to the community. I am determined to work towards these goals, and with the help of Give Directly's support, I am confident that I can bring these plans to fruition in the near future."
Sidi's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Sidi received a $24 twenty-second payment.
"During periods when I have fewer financial responsibilities, I manage to save $5 per month through a self-help group. My primary objective is to use these savings to construct a better house for my family. The current structure we have can hardly be called a house, as it leaks rainwater and consists of just one room. This cramped space is insufficient for my husband, our four children, and myself. I dream of having a traditional mud-walled house with iron sheet roofs, featuring three rooms. This improved housing would provide us with more comfort, space, and privacy. Additionally, I aspire to replace our current sisal-twined beds with decent wooden ones and mattresses."
Kuloba's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Kuloba received a $647 initial payment.
"I felt so happy. Actually it was a dream come true . I had already planned for it right from the time of being enrolled."
Esther's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Esther received a $372 second payment.
"With that first thing on my mind, I purchased a comfortable mattress and a spacious bed, costing a total of $130. For far too long, I had endured restless nights on a small, uncomfortable bed, and the relief I felt when I finally sank into the new mattress was indescribable. It brought a newfound sense of peace and comfort to my life. Also, I used a portion of the money to buy a much-needed smartphone. This device opened up a whole new world for me. I could now access the internet, search for information, and learn about the happenings worldwide. It was like a window to knowledge that I had never experienced before. With the remaining amount, I made sure to stock up on food and household necessities for my spouse and two children. My spouse's income as a casual laborer was meager, barely enough to sustain us all. It had been a constant struggle to make ends meet, but the cash transfer brought some much-needed relief. We could now afford to have nutritious meals and ensure the essential needs of our household were met."