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?
It was at night and I was preparing to sleep when I received the text message confirming that I had received the money from GiveDirectly. I was so happy and had a very wonderful sleep that night. This was because I knew I had gotten just enough money to address the challenges that I was facing.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The biggest difference in my daily life since I started receiving money from GiveDirectly is that I no longer have to do the tiresome and tedious work of cutting trees to burn charcoal and sell. It is, actually, a very huge relief that I am very grateful for. I have goats that I am taking care of, which is substitute for the charcoal burning and selling. I am so happy and grateful to GiveDirectly.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I spent most of the transfer which was KES 30000 on buying a secondhand motorcycle that my husband was going to operate as a motorcycle taxi. This was an idea of my husband and I, to be our regular source of income which was going to help us meet our family's immediate needs. I am so happy and grateful for it relieved us from the tedious and tiresome work of cutting trees to burn charcoal and sell. I also spent KES 10500 on buying three goats because they are an investment that will live on to the future, and through it I'll always remember the assistance I received from GiveDirectly since it's not something that will be consumed and be finished. I also know that my goats will multiply and increase in numbers, which inturn I'll be able to sell one or two in the future and address the financial challenges I will be facing. All thanks to GiveDirectly.
Enrolled
access_time over 2 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
Receiving this money means a permanent house for my family. I am currently living in a small house which is leaking during rainy season. I am planning to spend KES 30,000 to construct a better one that is decent. The remaining amount will use it to purchase a second hand motorbike that will help me to transport charcoal to my customers as well as start livestock farming. As they multiply I will sell at a profit and use the proceeds to buy food and other basic needs.
What is the happiest part of your day?
The last six months has been very challenging to my household. However, I when I wake up in the morning and find my family is in good health, It gives me joy and happiness. This is because life is a gift from God and therefore encourages me to work hard for the living.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
The challenge that I am currently facing is food insecurity due to the prolonged drought. It has been three years since we received ample rains in our area. My husband and I depend on charcoal production as the main economic activity. The job is tiresome and the returns are little KES 2400 per month which can not sustain a family of 6 members. In a day I require KES 300 for food and water. Due to this I have been struggling to get food for my household. Sometimes, I have to borrow from relatives which is unpleasant.
