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.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I received a message alert on my phone in the evening while I was at our neighboring town still looking for some customers. I became so happy after reading its contents and immediately informed my spouse about the good news. She was equally overjoyed and she started singing some praises while still on the call.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
I have made a step in life that I would not have been able to achieve on my own and this has changed how my daily life is. I am glad that we're almost moving into this house and I will not have to worry about where my visitors will sleep whenever they visit. All this would not have been possible had GiveDirectly not decided to give us unconditional cash transfer and I am grateful for that.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
When I received my transfer, I spent KES 30000 building a more spacious house for my family. I decided on this so that my children will have their own bedroom when they grow. Building a more spacious house had been my desire but I had not been able to since I usually spend all the money that I get paid by my neighbor for offering taxi services using his motorcycle on food. Also, I spent KES 11000 to clear school fee arrears for my spouse so that she would be given her secondary school certificate. I used the remaining amount on food and clothes for the family.
Enrolled
access_time almost 3 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
Receiving this money means a specious and better house for my family. The one we are currently is small and cannot accommodate my family of 3 . Whenever we have a visitor, we feel embrassed because the it acts as both the kitchen and bedroom. A year ago, we bought building materials but midway we lacked money. From the motorcycle I ride, I earn KES 300 that is enough to meet my family basic needs and I can save as little as KES 100 per day. We will use KES 40,000 to purchase building materials and meet labour costs. I am excited because I will own a two-roomed house eventually.
What is the happiest part of your day?
Intention of Givedirectly working in our area is what brought joy to me and my family in the last 6 months. I am excited because I will own a two-roomed house eventually which has been my desire for nearly a year now.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Financial constraints is my main challenge. Motorcycle taxi business is very competitive as it is the main source of livelihood especially to people my age. As a result the income I get from it is as minimal as KES 300 per day and it never goes beyond that. This stagnates my personal growth financially.
