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.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Facing financial constraints is really challenging for me right now. Here in Longewan, farming relies heavily on irrigation, which requires funds for essentials like a water pump and fuel. Unfortunately, I could not afford these necessities, so I had to lease out my 0.5 acres of land to my neighbor instead of cultivating it myself. If I had the financial means, I could cultivate that land and generate profits to support my family of six, helping us escape poverty and reducing our reliance on unreliable casual jobs. It is a difficult situation, but I am hopeful that I can find a way to secure the resources needed to get back to farming and improve our circumstances.
What is the happiest part of your day?
Living from hand to mouth can indeed be very stressful, especially since casual jobs are unreliable and scarce. As a family of six dependent solely on these jobs, there is always uncertainty about whether we will have work tomorrow. Despite these challenges, I am grateful that I have always managed to find some form of employment to earn income and purchase food for our household. It is a relief that, despite the economic hardships in Kenya, we have never had to go without food. That is something I am thankful for every day.
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
Living in a one-room iron sheet house that is on the verge of falling apart is incredibly challenging, especially during the rainy season when the roof leaks and exposes my family to illnesses like colds and pneumonia. I have been longing to build a decent shelter for my family of six, but financial constraints have prevented me from doing so. I am hopeful though, as I anticipate receiving some transfers from GiveDirectly .With these funds, I plan to spend $600 towards constructing a one-roomed house that will provide us with a decent and safe shelter. Additionally, I intend to use $300 to clear school fees arrears for my daughter in grade 11. This will allow her to focus on her studies without the worry of outstanding fees, and it will free up time for me to concentrate on income-generating activities and other family responsibilities that require financial attention. These plans give me hope for improving our living conditions and ensuring a better future for my family.
