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
55000 KES ($374 USD)
access_time 12 months ago
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What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I spent $45 of the recent unconditional cash transfer to pay for my daughter's college fees as she pursued a tailoring course. It had been a constant struggle to gather enough money for her exams, and I was deeply worried that she might miss out on this crucial opportunity. Just when things seemed bleak, GiveDirectly entered my life at precisely the right moment, and I am incredibly grateful for their support. With her education secured, I could breathe a sigh of relief, knowing that she had a brighter future ahead. Additionally, I used $120 to buy three goats, which I see as a lifetime investment. Goats have the remarkable ability to multiply rapidly, and I believe that in a short time, their numbers will increase significantly. This will provide me with a financial safety net to handle any unexpected bills or expenses that come our way. With the remaining amount, I have ambitious plans to start a business selling green vegetables and fruits. Currently, I make and sell charcoal, which is not only physically draining but also yields minimal profits. My husband is without a job, making it even more challenging to provide for our family of four. Starting this new business venture feels like a ray of hope, a way to lift us out of our financial struggles and towards a more stable future.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
My life has been transformed in significant ways. The unconditional financial support they provided allowed me to acquire valuable assets like goats, which have become a source of sustainable income for my family. Moreover, I can now proudly say that I am able to pay school fees for my children, ensuring they receive a quality education without disruptions. GiveDirectly's assistance has not only improved our financial stability but has also opened up opportunities for my children's future. Their commitment to making a positive impact in our lives is truly commendable, and I am grateful for the tangible improvements they have brought to my family's well-being.
How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
My primary goal is to not only start my vegetable business but also to expand it into something truly remarkable. I've always dreamt of having a thriving retail shop, and this business venture is the first step towards realizing that dream. As I nurture my new business, I'll carefully reinvest profits, build a loyal customer base, and gather valuable experience to eventually establish the retail shop I've longed for. With determination and a green thumb, I'm excited to embark on this journey towards providing quality produce to my community and taking steps closer to my ultimate dream.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($388 USD)
access_time 1 year ago
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What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Since receiving the transfer from GiveDirectly, my life has taken a turn for the better. With the funds, I immediately set out to address the pressing issue of my unstable mud-walled house. Knowing the risks it posed, I invested in its renovation by purchasing 8 bags of cement and sturdy hardcore materials to build pillars. Now, my house stands strong and resilient, ready to withstand any weather condition that comes its way. The newfound stability brings me immense peace of mind, knowing that my family and I are safe.
In addition to the house renovation, I saw an opportunity to secure a better future through investment. I decided to invest part of the transfer in a goat-rearing business. With $200, I purchased six goats, understanding that they have a ready market and can thrive in harsh climatic conditions. This venture will not only provide me with a source of income but will also open up possibilities for growth and expansion in the future. With the remaining amount, I prioritized my children's education by paying $96 in school fees, ensuring they continue to receive the education they deserve. Finally, I used the rest of the funds to buy food and clothes for my family, bringing a sense of comfort and stability to our everyday lives. The transfer has truly been a lifeline, empowering me to make crucial investments and improve the overall well-being of my loved ones.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
Before becoming a recipient of GiveDirectly, my life was a constant struggle. I lived in a small, dilapidated house that barely provided shelter for my family. Every day was a battle against hunger, and we often went to bed with empty stomachs. But then, everything changed. GiveDirectly stepped into my life like a beacon of hope, bringing with it a cash transfer that transformed our circumstances. With the newfound financial security, I was able to put food on the table regularly, and the pangs of hunger became a distant memory. But the impact didn't stop there. I used the funds to renovate our house, turning it into a haven for my loved ones. No longer do we fear for our safety at night, thanks to the support of GiveDirectly. The gratitude in my heart is immeasurable, for they have not only changed our lives but given us a chance to build a better future.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
It was in the evening at around 4 pm while I was fetching some firewood. Deliberately I had left my phone at home fearing it might be lost in the bushes. On returning home, My daughter told me that she heard a message tone from my phone. Since I do not know how to read, I asked her to check what kind of information was in that message. Upon checking, she informed me that I had received $550 from GiveDirectly. It was an unimaginable moment as if a dream had come true. My heart raced with excitement as I thought about the possibilities that awaited my family. I couldn't contain my joy, and tears of gratitude streamed down my face.
Enrolled
access_time over 1 year ago
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
I have two daughters making up a family of four. The first daughter Loyce has been sick for four years now. She suffers from epilepsy. This forced her to drop out of school while in class seven. I have taken her to different hospitals but in vain. As family this has really affected us financially and socially .
What is the happiest part of your day?
My second daughter did her KCPE last year 2022 and did well. She joined her dress-making course at Giriama Tailoring college Matanomane. I feel happy for her because soon she will be a professional tailor.
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
I have a family of four members with two being children. We all live in a one-room house which lacks privacy. My daughters have grown up and they need their privacy too. They are now seeking shelter from neighbors. This lowers my dignity in the community. I do subsistence farming and my husband is a mason by career. He earns approximately $10 per month which caters for food and school fees for my daughter who is at a tailoring college. She has a school fees balance of $11800. I will use $350 to build a two room house and let the two daughters use the one we have. This will cater for the materials only and labor will be done by the husband. I will also use $500 to buy ten goats as an investment. The remaining amount will clear the school fees balance for my daughter.