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 ($435 USD)
access_time 2 years ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
Before my son's illness, I ran a fish-buying and fish-selling business in the neighborhood, but I used up most of my resources, including the capital for the enterprise, which caused it to fail. I don't currently have a job or any other income. My strategy is to take on whatever casual work that comes up so that I may earn money to revive the enterprise. I am the only provider for the family because my spouse has been sick for a while. I'm hoping that once I get the business going, the money I make from it will be enough to meet our needs.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
Giving us money with no constraints, in my opinion, was a fantastic concept since it allowed people to address their diverse demands. Additionally, their staff follows up after the money has been given, which shows concern and care. Nothing about Give directly is failing, and everyone is happy about the company.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
During the time I received the second payment, my child was ill, and a larger percentage of the funds went on his medication. I bought a bag of maize for my family's use with the remaining $60. I appreciate the help since it allowed me to do everything I could to help my son get healthier. It is terrible that he was unable to get better, he later passed away while receiving treatment.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($474 USD)
access_time over 2 years ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
It was around 5 pm while I was on my way from the market when I received a message on my phone. Upon confirmation from my helper what kind of a message it was, my body felt energized and more strong; it was the first transfer from GiveDirectly. I felt so happy knowing that I would be able to get the things I have been yearning for in vain because I did not have the money to afford them.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
As a widow, life was taking me in the wrong direction since I had no defined source of income neither having someone to depend on. Hunger and shelter were the major problems facing me but from the time I received money from GiveDirectly, things turned into a new leaf. I can access food not like before as well as the construction of the house is underway.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Despite not knowing how much each item I bought cost due to illiteracy which bared me from keeping the records, I clearly remember what I did the money with. First, I was living in a leaking house with my mum; therefore I thought it prudent to construct a better house for her and I renovate the old one for myself. Concerning that, I bought some building poles and rafters and other construction materials. Thereafter, I bought a cow for KES 25000.00 knowing that soon I will be getting some milk once it gives birth. For the remaining amount, I used to buy food for the family.
Enrolled
access_time almost 3 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
Receiving this money means shelter for my mother. I returned to my parent's home after separating from my husband. My mother's house fell and I had to accommodate her in my small house which I constructed. According to our culture, parents should have their own separate house and this is an indication of respect. I am planning to spend KES 60,000 to build a 2 rooms house so that she can leave a comfortable and respective life. Apart from the house, I will use the remaining amount to purchase livestock which will be a source of income in the future.
What is the happiest part of your day?
Last month, during the Christmas celebrations I had nothing to prepare for the event because of financial constraints. Luckily, my son-in-law sent me KES 1,500 and told me to buy food for Christmas. This brought happiness to me because I had an opportunity to enjoy myself together with my neighbors.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Food Security is the biggest hardship I am currently facing. This is caused by the prolonged drought we have experienced in our area. I am a substance agriculturist but currently, I can not plant anything. I depend on charcoal burning this job is tiresome and earns me KES 400 in a week. This amount is not enough to cater to all our needs such as food.
