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.
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2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
53150 KES ($524 USD)
access_time over 5 years ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
Previously I had to work on someone's farm in order to put food on the table. Whatever I earned from it couldn't be enough to feed the family so I was forced to cross over to rift valley province which is neighbouring us to work for them in order to get a good amount of money to meet the family's needs. I'm happy this is not the case anymore because currently, I have a business which I started with the second transfer. I'm glad the business is doing so well and my living standards have improved.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
In my opinion, GD does well by giving people unconditional cash without asking for refunds. This has empowered people and most people have improved their living standards through GD money.
What did you spend your second transfer on?
My spouse passed on some years back leaving behind a small house which was in a bad condition. I had to stay in that house for so many years because I couldn't afford to construct a better house because I didn't have a reliable source of income. I, therefore, bought more building materials which I added to the materials which I bought with the first transfer and constructed a bigger and decent house. I'm glad I have a more spacious house which can comfortably accommodate my large family. Part of the money I spent on a boutique business because I didn't have a reasonable source of income.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($545 USD)
access_time 6 years ago
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Describe the biggest difference in your daily life.
The kind of a house which I used to live before Give Directly came to my life, was too small and very uncomfortable but now I have a big house which makes very happy. I appreciate Give Directly for the life-changing experience.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I felt very happy. This is because my biggest worry wasgoing to be solved. I was finally going to have a new house which I have always wanted.
What did you spend your first transfer on?
I spent my transfer on buying building materials such as iron sheets, nails and timber which I used in building a new house since the pone I had was too small and could not accommodate my family.
Enrolled
access_time over 6 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
Receiving this money is a miracle to me. I have never gotten this sum of money in my life. I plan to pay college fees for my son so that he can get his certificate.
What is the happiest part of your day?
The happiest part of my day is in the evening when listening to radio after a long day's work.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
The biggest hardship I have faced in my life was losing my husband. My children could not attend school like others since they spend most of their time home due to lack of school fees. I am the only bread winner and I had to sell all the our cattle that my husband left so as to cater for my family's needs like food, clothing and education.
