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.
How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
Looking ahead, I aim to concentrate on farming by either purchasing or leasing a generator to draw water from the river to my fields, which will enable me to grow beans. This essential investment will guarantee a consistent water supply, vital for the health of my crops. Once I begin generating income from my farming efforts, my intention is to invest in livestock, which I can manage at home to help support my family. With age catching up to me, I believe that caring for animals is a more manageable task than the strenuous work in the fields. I’m confident that combining crop and livestock farming will provide a reliable source of income for us. Ultimately, my goal is to improve our living conditions and ensure we have adequate food and resources for the future.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
When the officers came to my home, they were very friendly and did their work with a loving heart. They gave me good advice on how to use the money wisely, which I really appreciated. I have not noticed anything bad about the GiveDirectly officers; they have been very supportive and helpful. Their positive attitude made me feel comfortable and valued. I am very happy with the good things they have done for us, as it has made a big difference in our lives. I hope they continue to help families like mine and maybe find ways to reach even more people in need.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Investing in my home and family has always been a dream of mine, and this cash transfer finally made it possible. I spent $200 to purchase and install a sturdy entry gate for my home, replacing the makeshift barrier of tree branches I had been using. This new gate not only protects my property but also keeps out wandering animals that have destroyed my belongings. Furthermore, I feel a sense of security knowing that my family is safer with a proper gate in place.In addition to the gate, I used $20 to buy a cow. I see this cow as a valuable investment for the future, as it will provide us with milk and possibly additional income when it gives birth. Instead of spending all my money on food that would be gone in a few days, I believe owning a cow will help us become more self-sufficient. As someone who enjoys drinking milk, having my own cow feels like a great choice for my family’s health and nutrition.The remaining $50 went towards purchasing food for my family of three, as my other children are all married. Given my age, I find it challenging to take on heavy labor jobs, and I had been relying on burning charcoal for food. My husband is a farmer, so we sometimes depend on our crops, but there are times when we struggle. Thanks to this cash transfer, we now have enough food at home, allowing us to focus on building a better future together. I am truly grateful for this support, which has made a significant difference in our lives.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
20000 KES ($155 USD)
access_time 3 months ago
attach_money
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
It was my neighbor who first informed me about the news from GiveDirectly. Since I am older and cannot read messages on my phone, I quickly went to my son, who is also my helper. As soon as he saw me, he told me that I had received $200 from GiveDirectly. Overcome with gratitude, I knelt to thank God. When asked why, I explained that it was because of my happiness and relief, as we had been starving without food after the floods destroyed our farms. Now, I finally have enough to eat. With nothing else on my mind, I focused on buying food to end the hunger that had affected me and my husband.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The biggest difference since I started receiving transfers from GiveDirectly is the ability to have enough food at home. Previously, after the floods, I could barely manage one meal a day. Now, I comfortably enjoy three meals a day, which has greatly improved my health. I feel happy and stress-free because I no longer worry about where my next meal will come from.
I don't think there's any institution in the world that can do what GiveDirectly has done for me and my neighbors. I have never received such an amount of money before, nor have I been trusted to plan for myself in this way. God bless GiveDirectly for their support, and I hope we see more of this kind of assistance in the future.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
After the floods, my family faced a severe food crisis. We stayed in a camp for a month, and when we returned home, it was difficult to adjust to our old life. There were no opportunities to earn money, and our farm was gone, so we had no food.
When I received $200 from GiveDirectly, I decided to allocate $150 to buy enough food to last us for two months. Before receiving this money, we could barely afford one meal a day, but now I enjoy three meals a day. This has greatly improved my mental health because I no longer have the stress of finding food. I used the remaining money to buy a bed and mattress, as the floods had swept away our bedding and I had been sleeping on the floor, which was very cold. Now, I sleep comfortably and with dignity. I am happy and grateful for this timely support, which prevented us from facing starvation after the floods.
Enrolled
access_time 5 months ago
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
To address the food shortage in my family, I plan to allocate KES 10,000 towards purchasing food. Additionally, KES 10,000 will be allocated to replace household items damaged by the floods.
To mitigate the impact of floods on my home, I intend to use KES 45,000 for repairs, including cementing the floors. The remaining KES 45,000 will be invested in farming, where I will purchase a generator, seeds, and other necessary inputs to enhance productivity. This initiative aims to provide both food security and additional income for essential expenses such as fees and other necessities in future.
What is the happiest part of your day?
I was overjoyed when a goat gifted to me by my brother gave birth. I look forward to seeing the herd grow, as it will become a valuable source of income for me and my family in the future.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
I currently have 1 acre of farming land that remains unused due to financial constraints, preventing me from purchasing essential farm inputs such as a gasoline generator, pipes, seeds and fuel.
My family's primary income sources are charcoal burning and support from our children, which are insufficient to cover our food expenses and school fees for our two children. Moreover, our household items were destroyed by floodwater, and I lack the funds to replace them.