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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3rd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($317 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 goal for the upcoming year is to purchase a parcel of land, as I am currently residing on my parent's property. To achieve this objective, I have a well-thought-out plan in place. I intend to utilize the profits generated from my farming endeavors, particularly from the upcoming maize harvest, to fund the purchase of the land. This way, I can secure a place to call my own and achieve greater independence.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
GiveDirectly's operations were not only seamless but also highly enlightening. The way their officers introduced the program during the sensitization meetings was exceptional, ensuring that we grasped all the essential information. Their patience in allowing us ample time to ask questions and express our opinions was truly commendable. Above all, what left the most significant impression on me was the respect they accorded us as beneficiaries. Their genuine regard for our perspectives and well-being made us feel truly valued and appreciated. The entire experience with GiveDirectly was nothing short of outstanding, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a thoughtful and respectful organization.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I am a single mother of one, and my livelihood depends on farming. When I received my third transfer, I knew that building a decent house was a priority. The old house I was living in required renovations, but I lacked the means to do so. Raising significant amounts of money at once had always been challenging for me. With the transfer, I finally had the opportunity to improve my living conditions. I wisely invested $380 in the construction of a new house, a significant step towards providing a better living space for myself and my child. The remaining amount was used to purchase essential foodstuffs, ensuring our well-being. I am forever grateful for the support that has uplifted my living standards and granted us the gift of financial freedom. The opportunity to build a proper home and secure enough food has made a tremendous difference in our lives. The kindness and assistance received have left a lasting impact, and I will cherish the positive changes it brought to our lives. With this newfound stability, I am determined to continue working hard and provide a brighter future for my family. Thank you for helping me turn my dreams into reality.
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($346 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?
In the coming years, my family's next investment would be the purchase of a piece of land. This is because I still live on family land, which is not very comfortable. Before now, it has not been simple because of financial restrictions. I, therefore, intend to use the farm's earnings to accomplish this goal. Above all, I will always be grateful for the outstanding accomplishments I have made thus far.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
GiveDirectly's programs were fair and open; we were all treated well from the moment they arrived in the neighborhood, and they made sure to visit every home and determine the actual state of affairs there. The help we received from GiveDirectly changed our lives and increased our standard of living. They didn't discriminate against anyone while assisting and empowering our community. I didn't point out any flaws or things that weren't done with the utmost integrity.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I am a single mother to one child. I have never been married and still live on my father's land. Although it's insufficient for all our needs, I rely on farming for a living. I spent $200 of my second transfer to purchase tomato seedlings and an extra $200 on other crops such as maize and butternut. The remaining amount of money was spent on the purchase of foodstuff. I will always be thankful for the help I received from GiveDirectly which allowed me to plant with ease and hope for a bountiful harvest.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
18010 KES ($146 USD)
access_time almost 2 years ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I was having a normal day, just like any other day. Routine house chores when suddenly I heard my phone ringing. On checking, it was a text message notifying me that I had received money from GiveDirectly. I was filled with joy. This was the best news I had received in a while. I felt relieved because I knew I'd be able to accomplish my goals. I recall sharing the good news with my elderly parents who were equally excited and happy for me.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The biggest difference is that my life has changed amazingly and I am grateful. I am optimistic that the harvest from the farm will bring a financial breakthrough and a total blessing. This is because this would mean that my child would have enough to eat and also good education. Above all, it brought happiness to our lives because for us Christmas came early. I am glad that I would be able to accomplish it.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Being a single mother is not easy as I raise my only son in this current tough economy of our country. My parents are aged and thus can't look after themselves and I'm tasked with ensuring they are well taken care of. I do farming. When my initial transfer got to me, I used $90 on buying seedlings in readiness for the next planting season. I later bought fencing wire mesh for $50 to put around my piece of land. Additionally, I spent $30 buying clothes seeing that it was a festive season. The remaining amount was spent on buying sugar. The transfer made life simpler for us. In my entire life, I've not witnessed such a noble gesture, and we are privileged to be among the beneficiaries.
Enrolled
access_time 2 years ago
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
Since I don't have a land, I plan to spend $900 to buy 1 acre of land and $150 to do maize farming at half an acre land given to me by my father. I will be able to get 6 bags that I can sell for $250. In addition I also have $200 savings which I can use to support my farming and also start buying building materials for my new house. I can start by buying iron sheets worth $200 and continue farming and saving towards completing my house. I will need $600 to complete my house. This means that my son will have his own place in the future, hence won't be disturbed by my brothers when he grows up.
What is the happiest part of your day?
I bought a cow at $200 in January 2020, 4 months ago it gave birth to a female calf. I am happy because I can get half a liter of milk a day, which is enough for my son to drink and also to make tea for us.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
I am Jenniffer, a single mother who currently lives with my son who is 3 years old. Now that I have build a house in my father's land, I cannot be allowed to own the land by our culture. My biggest challenge is that I don't have a permanent place for me. I am worried that when my son grows up, he may not have a place to call home since my brothers may not want him to have this land I am currently living in.