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 around 9am while taking breakfast when I received a message in my phone. My heart was filled with joy and appreciation in a special way that I ululated in happiness. This happiness was as a result of the passed life which was full of misery and I knew that, that kind of life was coming to an end.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The biggest difference in my life that I can boldly state is that, GiveDirectly enabled me to send my grandson back to school. Initially, he was just at home since he was sent out of school due to school fees. But since the day I received the transfer, I ensured that he returns to school.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Upon withdrawing the money, the first thing I did was buying a mattress for KES 6000.00. This is because, for a while I have been sleeping on a bed tied with ropes and sacks. I also paid KES 5000.00 fee arrears for my primary school children. I also bought a cow for KES 12000.00. I am also planning to build a decent house since the one I have id is leaking. As of now, I used part of the 1st transfer to buy some construction materials and I am sure to complete it once I get the second transfer.
Enrolled
access_time almost 3 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
My house's roof is not in good condition and it's always noisy especially when the wind is blowing, something that has pissed me off since I no longer get enough sleep. This has prompted me to construct a better house that will guarantee me a stable life. To ensure this is achieved, I plan to spend, KES 40000 to construct the house. This will give me peace of mind and eventually, better health. On the other hand, I will spend the remaining amount to pay school fees for my 2 grandchildren and another portion will cater for my daughter's hospital bills who is currently suffering from a mental disorder.
What is the happiest part of your day?
Despite the many challenges that I am going through in my life, I am still so grateful because of the hard work my grandson is doing to ensure we get some meals. This is something that I do not take for granted and hence, I consider this as what has brought joy to my life.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
My elder daughter is suffering from a mental illness that has resulted in spending a lot of money especially on transport and hospital bills. Since we depend on my grandson who is doing casual work, we sometimes lack money to take her to the hospital, and this could result in worsening the condition. Hence, this is the challenge that I am currently facing.
