GDLive Newsfeed
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.
Stages:
 
Enrollment
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Transfers
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Completed
Newsfeed > Mathews's Profile
Mathews's family
Mathews
landscapeCountry:
kenya
workOccupation:
Casual labour
faceAge:
23
workCampaign
Standard Kenya
There will be no further updates from this completed recipient.
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
53075 KES ($511 USD)
access_time 5 years ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
I used to do any available casual job in the village including construction work that was straining just to see my children get their daily basic needs hence saving to obtain household furniture was not a priority then due to inadequate finances. Those were the most stressful days and I didn't afford a source of entertainment to loosen my mind which was making me slowly sinking into depression due to lots of unresolved problems. I bought a television set to be watching with the rest of my family members. Today ,my children are happy because of the entertainment which they lacked and the shame of having to go to the neighbors just to watch is now a thing of the past.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
when I personally talk about GiveDirectly I have a lot to say since its a life saver to many members in the different part of my country Kenya. GiveDirectly is an organisation that believes in transparency that is why every eligible person who was enrolled in the project received money without paying any bribe or favoritism was not factored in. Their staffs were also expert and comfortable to interact with since they were humble and friendly. I do not see what GiveDirectly did wrong at their work.
What did you spend your second transfer on?
I spent the larger part of my second transfer to buy furniture such as a bed , mattress and a television set which I lacked . The remaining amount I bought food and started a small grocery business for my wife to make her be independent since before she was a housewife.This means my family's entirely depended on me for everything.
 
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($546 USD)
access_time 6 years ago
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Describe the biggest difference in your daily life.
The biggest difference in my daily life is that I have a more spacious house. At least my family is comfortable.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
The moment I received money from GiveDirectly,I was so happy. People said that it was a scam,so when I saw it,I was happy and grateful.
What did you spend your first transfer on?
I spent the money I received from GiveDirectly on buying building materials that I used to build a more better house. I had a house that was not very descent. I also spent some money on buying furniture for my house.
 
Enrolled
access_time over 6 years ago
 
What does receiving this money mean to you?
Receiving this money means that I can finally build a better house for my family. My current house is dilapidated and it makes me very sad that I cannot build a more comfortable house but now my worries will soon be over.
What is the happiest part of your day?
The happiest part of my day is in the evening especially when I have been paid a wage. I often use the money to buy some food for my family and the smiles on their faces when I arrive home carrying the food makes me very happy.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
The biggest hardship that I currently face is lack of a sustainable source of income. I am just a casual worker and the jobs I get do not offer good wages, this means that my family often lacks basic items like nutritious food.