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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2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
53150 KES ($435 USD)
access_time over 1 year ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
My new goal at the moment is to major on livestock farming more. I would wish to add some more dairy cows to my flock which will in turn mean that I get to supply more milk and earn a substantial amount of income from that. This will ensure that my family's basic need will be met effectively.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
I am grateful for the work well done by GiveDirectly in our village. Many were suffering a lot before the transfers came in, but at the moment everything has completely changed in every household. Those who had no hope of ever living in good houses are now enjoying good living conditions, and even their farming activities have improved a great deal. Everyone was treated fairly - a reason that no one complains to date, but thankful for the generous support.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I was glad to receive the most recent transfer because it relieved me of the difficult task of feeding my family. Drought had really taken a toll on us and we had nothing left in the house to eat. I went to the market and bought maize and other food stuff worth KES 4000. I was happy that this would last us for almost a month with my family. I invested KES 44000 into buying two dairy cows and one goat. With the cows now lactating, I have been saving in bits and hope the two will increase income from the sale of milk, thus more savings. I later spent the remaining amount on foodstuff for my family and also bought new pairs of clothes, shoes and beddings for my one kid and myself. I am grateful for the support that has transformed my household greatly.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($465 USD)
access_time almost 2 years ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
While in the kitchen preparing for an evening meal, I heard a message tone popping into my phone at around 7 pm. Despite being illiterate, I know about interpreting Mpesa messages. Therefore, I checked and realized that I had received KES 55000.00 only that I did not know the sender. In that regard, I consulted my helper for clarification though I had a clue about the figure and I was connecting it to GiveDirectly. Upon confirmation, I was assured that the money was the first transfer. I felt so happy and my heart softened in joy.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
Initially, I used to risk my life by sleeping in a collapsing house because I had no alternative. I am now grateful for the support that I received from GiveDirectly. It helped me to construct a house and as of now, I live in a secured house because of GiveDirectly.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Since my house was old and it had collapsed on one side due to rainfall, I opted to build a new one. I bought 18 pieces of iron sheets for KES 17100.00, building poles for KES 4800.00, rafters for KES 3000.00, and KES 15000.00 for the contractor. I also added some stock of KES 2000.00 to my dumpling business and used the remaining amount in buying food for the family.
Enrolled
access_time 2 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
The grass-thatched roof of my house was destroyed by termites. For one year, I have been staying in a house that is half covered. The colds I experience at night are intolerable. Receiving this money means a good, decent house for me. I intend to use 20,000 KES to buy 20 pieces of iron sheets for the roof. Iron sheets being unaffected by pests, I will have a very durable house. I will then use another 10,000 KES to boost my small business of selling chapati and fried bread. From a profit of 100 KES per day, optimistically, I will make an extra 250 KES per day. With this income, I will be able to take care of myself comfortably.
What is the happiest part of your day?
On Christmas day last year, my only child, Zawadi, sent me 1,500 KES for the celebration. I was very happy because I bought new clothes using the money I received from my daughter.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Low income is the current challenge I am facing. I have been selling fried bread in my village for two years now. This business earns me 100 KES per day. This amount is very little. In an instance where I need a large amount of money to attend to necessary needs such as health care, I have to seek assistance from my relatives.
