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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3rd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($306 USD)
access_time 12 months ago
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What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Charcoal vending and part-time honey sales are my primary sources of income as I support myself while living alone as a single individual. Upon receiving my third transfer, I decided to invest in goat rearing to secure an additional income source and create a lasting reminder of GiveDirectly's assistance. Consequently, I spent $12 to add three more goats to my existing goat project. Additionally, I purchased $30 worth of maize supplies. I also set aside $350 to boost my honey business, which was previously unattainable due to financial constraints. I am thrilled that I could accomplish this goal in a relatively short span, bringing me immense joy and satisfaction.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
The freedom to allocate our transfer funds according to our specific needs was truly empowering. It enabled us to direct the money towards things that held great importance for us. Their presence and interactions left us elated and deeply grateful for the significant improvements that GiveDirectly's assistance had brought into our lives. Throughout my entire experience, I did not come across anything that needed improvement, as everything was executed flawlessly. I am immensely grateful for the support we received, as it has profoundly transformed my life in ways I couldn't have envisioned.
How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
I aspire to grow my honey-selling business, fueled by the ambition to increase my income. I approach this dream with a positive mind, intending to utilize the savings from my third transfer. I firmly believe that through strategic planning and unwavering dedication, I can develop my business into a thriving enterprise that not only meets my financial aspirations but also ensures a brighter future.
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($319 USD)
access_time 1 year ago
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What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I have been sleeping in some uncomfortable, painful old bedding for a very long time. This condition kept me from feeling at ease as the sun sets. I was even worried that this would cause me to undergo issues with my spinal cord. So, with the transfers in hand, I spent $32 on a mattress and outstanding bed sheets. Considering this is an experience I have never had before, it made me feel like I am born again. I later used $30 to purchase a table and two plastic chairs. It was so embarrassing that I could not provide chairs for visitors, so they were forced to sit on the floor or my bed. Now that I can offer them an appropriate place to sit, I am happy. Also, I had just been diagnosed with tuberculosis and had to seek a more effective treatment. Thanks to GiveDirectly, I am extremely pleased to be taking medication and doing well. I felt helpless and believed that my life would end because I am a single man with no close relatives or a steady source of income. Usually, I rely on odd jobs and make an average of $2 every single day. I will sadly be unable to work for some time due to the type of illness I have. Later, I spent $260 on a bull and two goats. In the event of any financial difficulties, they will function as assets for which they will be of assistance. They can survive so well in my area; that's why I decided to go for them. I finally bought plenty of the food that I have been taking for the better part of the last month.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
According to me, I do not think there is anything that needs to be changed as much as the fact that they are moving to the next village. I was impressed with the idea of them offering us financial help that was unconditional. They considered that every house has a different need, hence granting us freedom. They generally did well, and I am so grateful for the transformations.
How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
I have always wanted to put my little savings into livestock because I do not have a steady source of income. In particular, I want to keep more goats and bulls. I am confident that they will multiply very fast, which will allow me to sell some of them and take care of any outstanding bills or sudden emergencies that might arise. This will take place as soon as I get my next transfer, and I am pleased I already did some research on the breed to make things simpler for myself.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
20000 KES ($145 USD)
access_time over 1 year ago
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What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I was so happy to receive my first ever transfers from Give Directly because our old home was not in great conditions at all, this way, I decided to invest $ 220 to renovate our dilapidated one-roomed house plagued by termite infestation, I invested in repairs and improvements and I able to transform our living space into a safer, more comfortable environment. The removal of termite infestation not only restored the structural integrity of the house but also provided a healthier living space, free from the threats of pests.
Secondly, I recognized the importance of securing their compound. With a portion of the funds, I opted to erect a fence around our property. This decision served multiple purposes: enhancing security, protecting our privacy, and delineating their boundaries, this was about $50 in total since I only paid for labour.
Lastly, I acknowledging the fundamental necessity of food, so I allocated a portion of the funds towards ensuring access to nutritious meals by purchasing food, this ensured that our basic sustenance needs were met, thus alleviating the stress and uncertainty associated with food insecurity
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
Before renovating my home, I lived in a dilapidated and rundown house. The walls were crumbling, the roof leaked, and the overall condition of the dwelling was far from ideal. It was a place that brought stress and discomfort, hindering our ability to find solace and peace within our own home.
However, with the support of unconditional transfers, I saw an opportunity for change. I made the decision to invest in renovating our old house, and that choice has brought about a remarkable transformation.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
Given my situation of my house
Enrolled
access_time over 1 year ago
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
The main challenge that I'm facing at the moment is the lack of money. Currently, I don't have a permanent job and therefore I depend solely on casual labor which I get occasionally about two times a week. Through this casual labor, I'm able to earn 20 dollars which aren't enough to cater to my household needs. Since my neighbors are also in need I can't ask them for any assistance to meet my basic needs which makes life very difficult since I have to go without food sometimes.
What is the happiest part of your day?
My happiness daily despite the challenges that I face is having good health and the ability to work and get something to eat. This makes me very happy since I don't have to ask for food or money from anyone.
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
I'm currently living in a structure that has been destroyed by termites which brings about a lot of challenges since snakes sneak in sometimes. Because of this, therefore, my priority with the transfers is to repair my house. I will use about $10 to complete the repair. In addition to this, I also plan to fence my compound since I get disturbed by my neighbor's livestock. Finally, I will buy goats using part of the remaining amount. I will use about 50 dollars to purchase the goats and construct a fence. For the remaining amount, I plan to buy food and other household goods. I'm grateful for the opportunity that has been brought by GiveDirectly since this transfer will surely change my life.