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.
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2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
53010 KES
access_time 8 months ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
My lifelong dream revolves around diving into livestock farming, with a special focus on raising cows. I cling to the hope that the goats I've acquired will reproduce, paving the way for me to exchange them for cows, which will eventually multiply over time. My ultimate vision is to venture into milk sales, not only to sustain my household but also to strengthen my family's income. This endeavor isn't just about profits but also about securing my children's education and ensuring their future well-being. With each step forward, my dreams are materializing, igniting a fire of determination within me to create a brighter future for my family.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
The Givedirectly method of giving unconditional cash is impeccable, as it tackles a multitude of diverse issues. Its effectiveness leaves no room for improvement in my eyes. This approach directly confronts various challenges, providing a straightforward solution without unnecessary complexities. I wholeheartedly embrace its simplicity and effectiveness, finding no need for any changes. I personally thank GiveDirectly for changing my family's life.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
While I was at home doing laundry, I received a message notifying me of money from GiveDirectly. I was quick to share the amazing news with my husband, and his excitement and joy were written all over his face. We live with our three school going children and my husband and I do not have formal jobs but earn a living to support our family by burning and selling charcoal. Our earnings were barely enough to cater for our needs and also build a kitchen for us to cook in. Since we lacked a kitchen, I decided to use $250 of the transfer to build one. Previously, I had to cook outside, and rainy days were especially challenging because sometimes we would be forced to cook inside our little house and stuff the house with smoke, which was unhealthy for the children as we used firewood as cooking fuel. Now, having a kitchen means I can cook comfortably and store food safely, which brings me great happiness. I also used $140 to purchase four goats with hopes that they'll reproduce and eventually trade them for cows. Cow farming has always been my dream, as I hope to sell milk in my village. Furthermore, my children had outstanding school fees balance, and they were at risk of being sent home. To ensure their education wasn't disrupted, I allocated $120 to clear their fees for the term and this is a huge relief for me. I used the remaining funds from the transfer to purchase food and essential household items like soap and body oil.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($359 USD)
access_time 12 months ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
As I toiled away weeding the farm at around five o'clock, my neighbors excitedly shared tales of unexpected prosperity on their way home from work. Intrigued, I couldn't wait to check my M-Pesa account, sensing something positive in the air.Sure enough, a message from GiveDirectly awaited me, and a wave of joy washed over me. Rushing home, my spouse eagerly inquired about the news, and with a beaming smile, I confirmed the arrival of the much-needed funds. The possibilities unfolded in our minds, and the first priorities were clear – two comfortable mattresses for our family and me, and covering our children's school expenses.
The urgency to settle unpaid fees heightened as teachers frequently visited homes, making our newfound financial support timely. The memory of restless nights on an uncomfortable mat fueled our determination to transform our living conditions. With gratitude in our hearts, we embraced the positive change that had come our way.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
Receiving money from GiveDirectly has transformed my life in remarkable ways. The most significant change is the newfound comfort in our sleep. No longer confined to the monotony of a mat, my family now enjoys the luxury of mattresses, bringing genuine happiness to our household.Our living conditions have improved significantly as well. Our home, once in need of repair, is now in excellent condition. Reflecting on how we might have lived without this financial support is a stark reminder of the positive impact it has had on our lives.The ability to burn charcoal, a task that was once challenging, has become more manageable. With the funds, I can now hire someone to gather the wood needed, making the process smoother and more efficient. This not only enhances our daily activities but also adds a layer of economic stability to our lives.Gratitude fills my heart as I reflect on how GiveDirectly has changed my life and the lives of my family. The provision of comfort, improved living conditions, and newfound opportunities are the tangible differences that we now experience daily, marking a positive shift from the challenges we once faced.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Receiving my recent transfer marked a turning point for my family. With $90, I prioritized comfort and invested in two mattresses, liberating us from the discomfort of sleeping on a mat that had been our nightly companion. The significance of a good night's sleep was not lost on us. Allocating $30 to clear school fees arrears for my kids was crucial, especially with teachers making frequent visits. Education was a priority, and addressing this debt ensured a smoother academic journey for my children. The challenges of our tireless charcoal-burning efforts were eased with $130 dedicated to purchasing foodstuff. Unpredictable market conditions often left us struggling, impacting our ability to both pay for fees and put food on the table. This allocation alleviated that burden.
Lastly, with the remaining funds, I directed my efforts toward completing the construction of our new home. Heavy rains had displaced us, prompting the need for a fresh start. The transfer acted as a catalyst in rebuilding our lives, not just addressing immediate needs but also contributing to the long-term stability of our family.
Enrolled
access_time 1 year ago
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
My family of six has lived as a squatter for years now on a piece land that belongs to my husband relatives. my husband and I are not allowed to do any development project or build a permanent house on that piece of land. This has been a challenge to me. The husband and I do casual jobs earning approximately $50 per month which caters for food and school fees. I pay $25 per term for the three children at school as fees . I lack the capacity to buy my own land for the family. I will use $1000 to buy one acre of land and settle with my family. The land will give me the freedom to do development projects of my choice.
What is the happiest part of your day?
Food insecurity has also been a challenge for my family for quit long. The village has had drought for at least seven seasons. In April this year, we received heavy rain and did crop farming on a one acre piece of land and harvested four bags of maize each 50kg. The maize will sustain the family for seven months. Food security brings happiness in my life.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
My husband and I do not own a piece of land so we are living on a land that belongs to another family related to my husband. Most of the time they have been giving us warning that one day they will demolish our house. This has affected me because I can not do any development project on the piece of land I am living. Lack of land ownership is the challenge I am currently facing in life.