GDLive Newsfeed
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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Enrollment
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Completed
Newsfeed > Helen's Profile
Helen's family
Helen
landscapeCountry:
kenya
workOccupation:
Other
faceAge:
60
workCampaign
Kenya Large Transfer
There will be no further updates from this completed recipient.
3rd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($324 USD)
access_time 10 months ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
This year, my utmost objective is to thrive in cultivating a diverse range of fruits and vegetables. My aim is not only limited to subsistence use but to generate income from these crops. By establishing a profitable venture, I aspire to have the means to employ someone dedicated to the garden, eliminating the reliance on my son, who is currently occupied with work commitments elsewhere.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
What struck me the most about Give Directly was their unwavering commitment to transparency. They diligently fulfilled their promise of distributing cash equitably and punctually. Additionally, they went the extra mile by conducting multiple follow-ups to ensure the safe delivery of the transfers, instilling a strong sense of security within us throughout the entire process.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
When I received the unconditional transfers from Give Directly, I was filled with gratitude and excitement and Since I currently live alone and I have no help at home, I decided to exercise patience and hold onto the transfers, waiting for the perfect moment to embark on my farming project I have been doing it with my son, who works far away, and I yearned for the day he would return home for a work break. I knew that he possessed a green thumb and shared my passion for gardening. The thought of planting and nurturing the garden together brought a glimmer of excitement and anticipation into my heart. This means that I have saved my entire amount just to invest in fruits and vegetables growing because that Is what I have been doing and grown to enjoy a lot.
 
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($355 USD)
access_time 1 year ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
Now that the land issue has been put to rest, my immediate plan is to fence around the land and then later plant some food crops. My intention is to have these crops for my own consumption and I can always sell excess to my neighbors. With the unpredictable weather circle, having food reserve is wise so that we do not have to suffer like we are now due to failed rains.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
GiveDirectly is a fantastic organization. It's amazing that they granted us these payments and then allowed us the discretion to spend the money in accordance with our preferences. They take the time to teach us and address our inquiries appropriately. Their officers are really kind. I would not make any changes to the way the entire process is carried out.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Our dispute over the boundaries with my immediate neighbor began after the recent death of my husband. I really wanted to hire a surveyor to help me resolve this problem, but they cost money, which I did not have. Hence, I invited the land surveyor and paid him $70 when I received my transfer. The remaining money will be used to buy poles and barbed wire for my farm's fence as well as some food.
 
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
20000 KES ($162 USD)
access_time 1 year ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
Around 4:00 p.m., GiveDirectly sent me a Mpesa message notification, but when I tried to read it, I found it difficult to understand. I had to visit my neighbor because I was home alone at the time, and she informed me that I had received the first transfer from GiveDirectly. I was overjoyed to confirm that. After giving thanks to God, I had to adjust my plans before picking up the money from the local shopping center the next day.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The improved livestock farming is the biggest difference in my day-to-day activities. My goats have been dewormed, and I anticipate that they will grow well over the upcoming few months. Considering that the fence I am building will prevent them from destroying my farms' crops, I also have plans to curb the grazing frenzy.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I purchased five rolls of chain links, each costing $24, as soon as I received the first transfer from GiveDirectly. I am yet to use them to construct fencing around my farms to keep livestock out. Our crops have always been destroyed by the goats belonging to our neighbors. I also have goats, and it has been difficult to let them go without a fence restraining them since they get into the garden and destroy veggies. Additionally, I spent $24 for fencing poles that I will use for the same fencing project. In addition, I dewormed my 14 goats after spending $10 on medications. Furthermore, as I currently live alone, I used the leftover money to purchase groceries and household items that I still use. Additionally, as I currently live alone, I used the remaining money to purchase foodstuffs and household items that I still use. My sons and daughters have all left the house to start their own families after my spouse passed away two years ago.
 
Enrolled
access_time over 1 year ago
 
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
Even though I am old and sick, I still hope to be independent. I developed blood pressure and ulcers in 2021 after the demise of my husband and I have since been on medication which is quite expensive. When I receive these transfers, I intend to fence my land to cultivate cassava and sweet potatoes since they thrive well in this environment. I will be glad to earn income from the sales as well as produce food. Furthermore, I will save the income for emergencies in case my health deteriorates and I will not have to bother my children since they are my only financial source.
What is the happiest part of your day?
No one wishes to be in debt or always be a bother to her children and neighbours. Although this has been my state most of the time, I am glad that my 0.5-acre garden has been productive. I planted vegetables and fruits which generates income towards my medication in case my children do not have any. Additionally, I have been food secure as I fetch the vegetables directly from the garden and my health is now improving.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Old age comes with a lot of challenges, health problems being one of them. When I lost my husband in 2020, I was depressed because I no longer had someone to lean on in times of need. All my children are married and they relocated to another town but only come over the holiday. Since then, my health deteriorated as I developed recurrent blood pressure and ulcers. It pains me because I do not have the finances to manage this condition as I always depend on my children for support. At times they do not have the finances and I have to borrow from friends which is embarrassing.