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?
I was on my way to the shopping center that evening when I received the transfer message. Everyone on the way could tell how over enjoyed I was because I couldn't hide the smile. I certainly called my husband to tell him about the good news and all he was saying was " fillanly, we gonna tile our house floor."
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
Previously, I didn't see myself going to college anytime soon because we were planning on tiling the house first. Now I'm hopeful that I will be joining college soon because the money that would have been spend on tilling the house will go to school fees.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
My husband who is a soldier had done everything to make our two bedroom house beautiful but he couldn't afford to tile our floor because he had a huge burden to carry. Since he is the sole provider of the family, he couldn't manage to pay school fees for both our child and I and provide other basic necessities. When I was enrolled in the program, I knew this was the perfect time to do the tiling. I spent all my transfers worth KES 55000 to buy tiles, cement and pay the tile installers. My house now looks more beautiful and I can't get enough of walking around everyday. As family, we are so thankful to GiveDirectly for making this happen.
Enrolled
access_time over 2 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
My main house is not complete and still requires about KES 50000 for completion. This money came at the right time when we are struggling to have some money to have this project complete. I will also plan KES 30000 to buy Friesian cattle to help us boost our milk production, this will generate more family income through the sale of milk. Poultry farming has been my passion and dream but lack of capital has been my biggest challenge. I will inject the remaining money into this business and also buy food for my household.
What is the happiest part of your day?
When I received the news that GiveDirectly is coming to our village, I was moved with joy and happiness. I saw all my suffering and dreams of venturing into poultry farming coming true. This will raise my status from beings a housewife to someone who can provide for the family.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
I recently completed my Secondary school education. This makes it difficult for me to find a job and support my husband in providing for the family. This is making me struggle financially and depend on my husband who is the sole breadwinner.
