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 preparing breakfast for my children when I learned that I had received my money from GiveDirectly., I felt happy because this money would transform my entire life positively.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
My life is currently different because I managed to upgrade my house since it was very small with leaky roofing. I settled on this since the cost of renovating our old house was relatively low as compared to that of building a new one. I am extremely grateful to GiveDirecly because I can now access a good shelter which I wouldn't accomplish all these anytime soon using my own money. I have depending on the casual labors and the little that I could earn was only for my family's daily bread.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I spent part of my first transfer on buying some building materials such as building poles, iron sheets, sand, nails, cement, a wooden door. This was for the renovation of my house which was small with some old leaking roofing. and the remaining materials were for the construction of a special house for my chicken. Previously I used to stay with them in my own house which was not hygienic and the house was small and we were always suffocating. I also used KES 15000 as his labor charge. The remaining amount of money, I used it in buying some enough foodstuffs for my family.
Enrolled
access_time over 4 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
It has been a long life dream to start a poultry farming business as an income generating activity. I will spend my first transfer to construct a chicken pen, buy chicks, chicken feeds and medicines. I am hopeful that it will pick up pace so fast due to the ready market in many of the coastal towns. With my second transfer, I will expand my house by building two more bedrooms for my children. This will give my husband and I some privacy.
What is the happiest part of your day?
On weekdays, I volunteer my time teaching at a local primary school near my home. This is the time I love most. Nothing gives me more satisfaction than the feeling of positive contribution towards the future of these children.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
My biggest hardship in life is lack of capital to start my own business. I love the independence that comes with running your own project while earning from it. Currently, I rely on my husband who earns very little from his casual work in a school far from here. With my own income, I can meet our needs and make decisions on matters that affect my family.
