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 > Dama's Profile
Dama's family
Dama
landscapeCountry:
kenya
workOccupation:
Small business
faceAge:
31
workCampaign
Kenya Large Transfer
There will be no further updates from this completed recipient.
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
53010 KES ($373 USD)
access_time 9 months ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
After utilizing the second transfer, I developed a crystal-clear goal: to provide my children with the best education imaginable. I knew that once I got some money, it would be the stepping stone to achieving this ambition. Nothing would give me greater satisfaction than ensuring my kids received top-notch education from their early years through college. I envisioned them growing into well-rounded, knowledgeable individuals who could conquer any challenge life threw their way. With my determination fueled by the desire for their future success, I vowed to create a world of opportunities for them, molding their minds and shaping their futures into something extraordinary. As I worked towards this dream, every penny I saved and every milestone I reached from my casual jobs will be a testament to the love and dedication I have for my children's future, and it is a journey I embrace with unwavering resolve.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
Receiving a donation from GiveDirectly has been an incredible blessing for our village. The openness and transparency of their approach have been unlike anything we've experienced before. In the past, promises of help often ended up benefiting only a select few. However, GiveDirectly fulfilled its commitment by sending money directly to our Mpesa accounts without any restrictions on how to use it. This level of trust and empowerment has sparked positive transformations throughout our community. The ability to decide how to spend the funds has enabled us to address our unique needs, and it's truly been a game-changer. I am deeply grateful for the organization and harbor no reservations about their work; they have made a lasting impact on our lives.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
When I first received the cash transfer from GiveDirectly, I knew exactly where to start. With the initial payment, I began rebuilding my house which had crumbled in a storm. Although the funds were limited, I made significant progress on the construction. But it was the second transfer that truly made a difference. I used $170 to add the final touches to the house, turning it into a safe and comfortable haven. No longer do I have to endure the cold nights outside; now, I rest peacefully within the walls of my new abode. Not only did the cash transfers help me secure shelter, but they also allowed me to invest in my children's future. I devoted $150 to pay for their school fees, ensuring they could continue their education and have a chance at a better life. Moreover, I wanted my family to feel a sense of dignity and pride, so I spent $56 on new clothes for everyone, seeing their faces light up with joy when they tried them on was priceless. With the remaining amount, I made sure we had enough food to sustain ourselves, as relying solely on casual labor had often left us hungry. Now, thanks to GiveDirectly's support, my family and I have taken significant steps toward a more stable and hopeful future.
 
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($399 USD)
access_time 11 months ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
My helper informed me that I had received my first cash transfer at around 11 a.m. I remember being on my farm, planting maize. I was overwhelmed with joy and thanked God for bringing GiveDirectly into my life. I was sure that I would finally be able to build the modern house that I had been dreaming of.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
As a mother, my key objective is to see all my children get a better education. This has not been happening due to the financial hardship that I have been through. Their academic journey has generally been troubled, which has affected them now and then. I vowed to do all I could to make sure they went back to school since education plays a very big role in shaping the future of my children. I can see the light ahead and lots of blessings as soon as they graduate and become responsible people in the future. It is also in my prayer that even at my advanced age, they will also be taking care of me. Thank you so much, GiveDirectly, for making it happen and for your kindness.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
My six children, who are in grades seven, six, five, four, three, and two, had been staying home for close to a week due to the tuition fees. For that matter, I used $250 of my first cash transfer to clear the deficit for smooth learning. I am so happy to see them back in class, which has motivated them to work extra hard in their exams and excel in life. Apart from that, I had the urge to build a spacious house so that I could replace the initial one. However, I could not achieve this because my spouse and I are both unskilled, and the little we earn from our casual jobs could still not be enough to even purchase basic needs like food. Therefore, I spent $220 of the recent transfer to fund this project. As a mother, I feel good about being able to shelter all my family members under one roof. We will no longer have to worry about the rain on securities issues. I later used the remaining cash to buy food for the family. At least we no longer go without meals like Becore.
 
Enrolled
access_time 1 year ago
 
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
I have a one-room grass roofed house that accommodate all my family of nine. It is not spacious and lacks privacy. It is hard to dress in the house after taking birth so most of the time my husband and I do it in the bush. I do charcoal burning as my job earning $12 per month. My husband does a casual job at Mombasa earning $30 per month. This money caters to food only. My six children also have a fee balance of $180 at Mrimani primary school. I will use $800 to build a three-room house and equip it with a bed and a mattress. This will improve my living standards. I will also use $180 to clear school fees for the children at Mrimani primary. Thanks to Give Directly for your program.
What is the happiest part of your day?
For the whole of January 2023, I was very sick. My stomach was always full as If I had taken food and also had a lot of pain. I could not even sleep well. In February I got some medication and the problem stopped. I am happy to be well and continue with my daily routine.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
I have six children schooling at Mrimani primary. The are supposed to pay $20 each every term. They have a fee balance of $180 which includes $60 arrears for last year. They have been out of school for the whole of February. This has affected their performance. I do charcoal burning which gives me $120 per month which caters to food only. The lack of money to pay school fees for my children is the challenge I am facing.