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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 > Elizabeth's Profile
Elizabeth's family
Elizabeth
landscapeCountry:
kenya
workOccupation:
Subsistence farming
faceAge:
85
workCampaign
Kenya Large Transfer
There will be no further updates from this completed recipient.
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
53010 KES ($348 USD)
access_time 8 months ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
Looking ahead to the coming year, my greatest accomplishment will be ensuring my son's complete recovery and his return to a healthy and normal life. This will entail providing him with the utmost care and securing the necessary medical attention he deserves. The financial assistance I have received has been invaluable in enabling me to work towards achieving this goal, and I am truly grateful for it.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
Give Directly has been performing exceptionally well in their commendable mission of providing unconditional transfers to those in need. With these transfers, I am empowered to plan and utilize the funds to overcome the challenges I face. I express my sincere appreciation and gratitude for the support I have received through these transfers.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
My son has been unwell for nearly a year now, experiencing multiple hospital visits without significant improvement. To cover medical expenses and purchase necessary medications, I allocated a substantial portion of my transfers, totaling $360. However, I am delighted to share that his health has recently shown signs of improvement, and I remain hopeful for his continued progress and full recovery. Additionally, I made a wise investment by purchasing a goat for $40, recognizing its potential as a valuable asset in times of emergency. Lastly, I decided to prioritize my own comfort and purchased a wooden bed for $50. Unlike the past, when I slept on an uncomfortable sisal twine bed, I can now enjoy a restful sleep. I express my deep gratitude to the financial transfers for assisting me in overcoming the challenges posed by my son's illness.
 
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($376 USD)
access_time 11 months ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I was sitting in my humble house, seeking refuge from the blazing afternoon sun when my phone buzzed twice rapidly. Illiterate as I am, I turned to my granddaughter, who happened to be nearby and asked her to see what the commotion was about. With a bright smile, she shared the news that GiveDirectly had sent the first transfer of the money they promised us. A wave of joy washed over me, as I realized it was the largest sum of money I'd ever held at once.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
Ever since I received that first cash transfer from GiveDirectly, the biggest change in my life has been the end of hunger. It used to be a constant companion, with my family enduring at least two or sometimes even three days a week without food. It all started when my son fell ill, and he was our main source of income. He lost his job, and we were left struggling. But now, things are different. We're so grateful because we have consistent access to food. Since that first transfer, we haven't gone without a meal, and it's all thanks to GiveDirectly.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Receiving the cash from GiveDirectly was like a blessing from the heavens for me and my granddaughter. We were sharing a tiny bed, and it was tough, especially during the chilly nights. So, the very first thing I did was buy her a brand-new bed. The joy in her eyes when she saw it was priceless. Now, we both sleep comfortably, no more squeezing and shifting during the night. It's the best feeling in the world knowing she's resting well. With some of the money, I decided to invest in a goat for $30. It might sound strange, but this little goat represents a big step for us. It's the start of our goat-keeping venture, and I'm excited about the possibilities it brings. The remaining amount was put to good use too. I bought food to ensure we had enough to eat, and I paid my grandchildren's school fees. Their father had fallen ill and lost his job, so things were tough. But now, thanks to GiveDirectly, we have a bit of stability and hope for a brighter future.
 
Enrolled
access_time 1 year ago
 
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
My house at the moment is made of mud walls with weak poles. It is currently not in good condition because the mud is falling and the floor is loose. I plan to ensure the house is reinforced with stones and cement to make it strong. I will also smoothly finish the floor to avoid any health-related illness due to loose sand. This will cost me utmost $300. On the other hand, I intend to buy 6 goats as my investment for the children's future school life. Since they multiply fast, I consider this, the best project for me. The cost for this will be $240. The remaining amount will help me to sort out other basic needs like food, current school fee arrears and new beddings for my family. Hence, this is generally what receiving this money means to me.
What is the happiest part of your day?
The support I get from my daughter-in-law is enough to say thank you to God. In April this year, my granddaughter who had stayed at home due to the lack of fees was able to join secondary school courtesy of my daughter-in-law. This was a big boost to me because I had lost hope of her continuing with studies. I am now a happy guardian and this is what has brought joy in my life.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
I consider food insecurity as the main challenge in my household. This is because being a widow staying with 3 young grandchildren is equally an added burden on me. Since their mother works as a house help, her monthly income of $50 can not sustain our needs. In most cases, we seek help from my daughter-in-law. The pain of watching them desperately at home sometimes stresses me most and this has devoured my hope as a guardian.