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
53150 KES ($506 USD)
access_time 4 years ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
I was previously sheltering in a small grass-thatched hut that would leak badly during the rainy season. However, my life has greatly changed because after receiving the money, I managed to build a decent and spacious iron-roofed house to live in with my family. I would still be living in my hut had it not been the coming of GiveDirectly since I lacked the financial resources to buy any of the building materials.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
Many of us could not access better shelter but when we received the financial support from GiveDirectly, we are now able to access better shelter which In my opinion, its what GiveDirectly does well. I do not see anything that GiveDirectly does not do well.
What did you spend your second transfer on?
I spent KES 18000 of my second on buying two beds and two mattresses for my family. We did not have nice bedding to sleep on we were using mats which were not comfortable at all. At least now we can comfortably enjoy a good sleep after buying new ones. In addition to this, I also spent KES 13000 to buy a bull and my expectation is that I will buy another one so as to make a pair that will help me to plough my farm. I also spent KES 6000 to purchase a new metallic door and fixed in my house since the one I was using was broken. I also bought a solar panel that is providing lighting for my household. I am spending the remaining amount to buy some foodstuffs and paying for other household expenses.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($546 USD)
access_time over 4 years ago
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Describe the biggest difference in your daily life.
Since I have been longing to have my own permanent house, having my own has made my daily life to be totally different. My life has been so miserable since I got married because of the condition of the house. It was just a small traditional hut with some weak walls which had holes all over and a leaky roof. Life during the winter seasons has never been good. We could not afford to sleep because we were rained on, we really had no difference with someone who sleeps under a tree. It is now a great relief because u never thought I will own one anytime soon. We are now sleeping comfortably with my family and I feel we are safe compared to the previous one. I am currently enjoying my marriage ever since I got the new decent house courtesy to GiveDirectly.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I remember very well it was around 7 am when I was from the hospital. One of my children was unwell. Then I heard my phone vibrating, I definitely knew it was a new message. After checking, I confirmed it was an mpesa message from GD. I had finally received my first transfer. I was so happy and I wish you could see how I reacted.
What did you spend your first transfer on?
I spent part of my first transfer on buying some build materials such as some spices of iron shets, building, ropes, nails, and timer. This was for the purpose of constructing a new house because the previous one was in poor condition. During the winter seasons, I used to stay awake until the rains stop. I then cleared fees arrears for my children who have been staying home for a couple of days. Apart from this I also bought some goats as my potential. The remaining amount of money I bought some enough foodstuffs for my family and some other essential household items such as utensils and many more.
Enrolled
access_time over 4 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
I was married with the hope of living a better life with my family but this has never been the case to me. I have missed the happiness that I thought I could have and this is as a result of being a dependant to my husband who is a casual labourer. His earnings are low and he has failed to support in meeting some basic needs like a decent house for the family something that has eaten away my joy. With the grant gift that I am about to receive from GiveDirectly, I plan to spend utmost 300 dollars on house construction. This will place my family in a better living standards, a situation that will restore my dignity. My other plan is to buy a portion of land that I can make a farm and this will cost me an estimated amount of $200. This will mean a better version of my life, a transformation that I have long wished.
What is the happiest part of your day?
I consider evening being the happiest part of my day because I usually get ample time to rest from the tiresome day's work. Unlike in the morning and afternoon hours when I am busy doing household chores and farm work.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Failing to meet my life desires of owning a better house and a portion of land due to lack of money is my biggest hardship. This has forced me to live in a one roomed house with my 5 children, something that has made it congested with beds. At the moment, this room is also used as a kitchen and this has made it look sooty. I also lack a land to make a farm and I am forced to lease from my neighbour. I am now happy to learn that my life will change once I receive my transfers since I will be able to own a better house and a farm to boost of.
