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.
Kadii's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Kadii received a $24 fourteenth payment.
"My primary goal for the coming year and beyond is to acquire more livestock, specifically goats and chickens. To accomplish this, I have diligently saved at least $20 per month in our local savings group for the sole purpose of purchasing these valuable assets. Owning livestock not only gives me pride, but it also provides a vital safety net for any potential financial emergencies, which is especially important given that I do not currently have a regular source of income. With the funds saved, I have already made progress towards my aspiration. I have purchased two goats and three chickens, and I am devotedly rearing them with care. Aside from the financial benefits, these livestock give me the peace of mind that my children's education is secure. If the need arises, I can readily sell some of the livestock to cover their school expenses, ensuring that their educational journey remains uninterrupted."
Sidi's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Sidi received a $24 fourteenth payment.
"In the upcoming year and beyond, my plan is to invest in buying more goats and focus on keeping and rearing them. Previously, this venture seemed unattainable, as I primarily used the transfers to meet my basic needs, such as food. Our reliance on subsistence farming for food was affected by a prolonged drought, making it impractical for some years. However, with recent sufficient rainfall, I have fully cultivated my four acres of land, and I am confident of obtaining a good harvest. This positive development ensures that food will no longer be a pressing challenge, allowing me to redirect the transfers towards purchasing goats. The decision to own goats is an excellent project, as they can serve as a valuable financial resource in times of need. Moreover, apart from their immediate financial benefits, I also see a promising future for my children's education with the inclusion of goats in our livelihood."
Salama's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Salama received a $387 initial payment.
"Upon withdrawing the money used $100 to settle the long-overdue school fees for my five children. Their faces lit up with joy when I told them they could go back to school. Seeing them return to the classroom after being sent back home due to fees was a moment of immense pride and relief. With $90, I decided to invest in our future by purchasing three goats. Starting a livestock-rearing project seemed like a smart move, and I knew it would provide a steady income source for our family. The goats would multiply, and we could eventually sell some to improve our financial situation further. But my children's well-being was still at the forefront of my mind, so I used $44 to buy them new bedding, ensuring they could sleep comfortably and peacefully each night. As the owner of a small cafeteria, I used $20 to add more stock to the cafeteria, making it more attractive to customers and enhancing our profits. Additionally, I made a conscious decision to save $100 from the cash transfer. I planned to wait for the second transfer, and with that combined amount, I hoped to buy a piece of land for farming—a dream that seemed within reach now. Meanwhile, I used the remaining funds to buy enough food for my family, ensuring that their bellies were full and their spirits lifted. GiveDirectly had given us more than just money; they had given us hope and the chance to shape a better future for ourselves."
Kafedha's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Kafedha received a $387 initial payment.
"Previously, my old house was a constant source of discomfort and embarrassment. During rainy nights, I would get soaked as I had no proper roof to shield me from the downpour. It was humiliating not to be able to host visitors due to my inadequate living space and its dilapidated state. As a widow, I struggled to make ends meet by relying on odd jobs, leaving me with little hope of ever being able to afford a new house. However, thanks to the support from GiveDirectly, I can now proudly say that I have a safe and secure home, free from rain and shame. The burden of responsibilities no longer holds me back, and I am filled with gratitude for the positive impact this assistance has had on my life."
Dama's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Dama received a $373 second payment.
"Receiving a donation from GiveDirectly has been an incredible blessing for our village. The openness and transparency of their approach have been unlike anything we've experienced before. In the past, promises of help often ended up benefiting only a select few. However, GiveDirectly fulfilled its commitment by sending money directly to our Mpesa accounts without any restrictions on how to use it. This level of trust and empowerment has sparked positive transformations throughout our community. The ability to decide how to spend the funds has enabled us to address our unique needs, and it's truly been a game-changer. I am deeply grateful for the organization and harbor no reservations about their work; they have made a lasting impact on our lives."
Kahunda's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Kahunda received a $373 second payment.
"Receiving the cash transfers from GiveDirectly was a turning point in my life. With my house in ruins, I had been relying on the kindness of a relative for shelter, and it was a constant struggle. But when the second transfer came through, I knew exactly what I had to do. I used the money to build my own house, a small but sturdy place that I could call my own. The feeling of having a roof over my head again was indescribable. I finally had a place to feel safe and secure, and I was filled with happiness and comfort. Education has always been a priority for me, so I made sure to invest in my children's future as well. I paid $200 in school fees for all four of them - two in secondary school and the other two in primary school. Seeing my children go to school with bright smiles on their faces filled me with immense pride and joy. Knowing that they now have the opportunity for a better life gave me hope for the future. With the remaining amount, I bought some much-needed food for our family, and we all enjoyed a meal together, thankful for the new beginning that the cash transfers had brought us."
Sanita's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Sanita received a $387 second payment.
"Receiving the cash transfer from GiveDirectly was a blessing beyond measure. With $250 in hand, I immediately set to work on securing a brighter future for my family. Recognizing the potential of my promising food crops, I invested $250 to construct a sturdy granary. Once the harvest season arrives, I'll have a safe place to store our precious maize produce, ensuring food security and eliminating wastage. My children's education has always been my top priority, so I used $80 of the cash transfer to pay their school fees. Watching them go to school with smiles on their faces filled my heart with pride and joy. Furthermore, I seized the opportunity to diversify our income streams by purchasing goats for $135. I had heard of their resilience and rapid reproduction, making them a perfect investment choice for my family's future stability. The remaining amount was wisely spent on buying food for immediate needs. Gone are the days of hunger and uncertainty; now, we have enough to eat. The transformation in our lives is evident, as our hope and optimism for a better tomorrow grew stronger with every passing day. I am eternally grateful to GiveDirectly for their support in changing us to our present circumstances."
Kanze's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Kanze received a $373 second payment.
"As a recipient of GiveDirectly's generous donation, I can't help but praise their approach to assisting. The fact that they allowed us the freedom to decide how to use the funds made a significant difference in my life. It instilled a sense of empowerment and responsibility, knowing that I could make choices based on my family's specific needs and aspirations. This level of autonomy resulted in a degree of contentment and happiness that I hadn't experienced before. I am truly grateful for GiveDirectly's support, and I genuinely couldn't find any flaws in their approach. Their commitment to empowering individuals in need is commendable, and their impact on my life and the lives of others is undeniable."
Thabu's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Thabu received a $373 second payment.
"Once I get some money, my heart is set on achieving a dream I've held close to my heart for years. I want to start a cozy cafeteria business, a place where people can gather, savor delicious food, and create lasting memories. This venture isn't just about monetary gain; it's about the sense of fulfillment that comes with building something from scratch. With my family in mind, I envision a warm and inviting space where my loved ones can work alongside me, sharing in the joy of our shared accomplishments. The cafeteria will be a source of pride for us, not only providing for our needs but also fostering a sense of community in the neighborhood. With passion as my guiding force and the support of my family, I am confident that this endeavor will bring success but also profound satisfaction."
Kasiwa's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Kasiwa received a $373 second payment.
"The financial independence we have gained through the assistance is truly empowering. What impressed me the most was how they treated everyone with respect and professionalism, especially the elderly and the young. The enrollment process was inclusive and accessible as the officers visited every home in the village. Throughout our interactions, I have not encountered anything improper; their transparency and sincerity have been evident at every step. GiveDirectly's support has not only provided us with much-needed financial relief but also instilled a sense of hope and confidence in a brighter future. I am deeply grateful for their help and the positive impact it has had on our lives."