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?
It was in the evening at around 4.30 pm when my daughter-in-law informed me that she had received hers. I immediately went into the house to bring my phone to her for confirmation since I do not know how to read. When she confirmed and told me that my money in the account had been sent to my account, I was filled with happiness and I did not manage to ululate inwardly instead, I ululated loudly out of happiness.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
If it were not for the transfer, I don't think I could be alive today. The money marked a huge difference in my life that will not be forgotten. My health was not in a good condition due to high blood pressure but through the transfer, I managed to go to hospital. It also restored my confidence in welcoming people into my home with open hands knowing that, even if they opt to sleep.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Upon withdrawing the money, I added a room to my house to extend it since it was small to accommodate my family. The expansion cost was KES 12000.00. I also bought a goat for KES 4500.00g I also took some amount for medication which cost me KES 15000.00. The reason for seeking medication was high blood pressure. I thank God the GiveDirectly money helped me greatly.
Enrolled
access_time 2 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
I have a family of three and I am also a widow. My husband died ten years ago. I work as a casual laborer earning approximately KES 5000 per month. This money is too little that I cannot pay school fees for my grandchildren and also buy food for the family. My house is also leaking during the rainy season. Upon receiving my money, I will renovate my house by changing the roof for KES 50000. I will also use KES 40000 to buy ten goats as an investment. This will help me in the future in case of an emergency. The remaining amount will be used to buy food for the family.
What is the happiest part of your day?
My daughter works in Dubai. She has been quiet since she went three years ago. In January 2022, she sent money worth KES 20000. I bought food for the family and other necessities. We used to have only one meal per day but since January we are taking two meals per day. The gift from my daughter brought happiness to me.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
My legs have been having sharp pains since last year. This has made me unable to walk without getting support from a stick. I have no money to go for a checkup at the hospital due to lack of money. Lack of money is the current challenge I am facing.
