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
53010 KES ($360 USD)
access_time 12 months ago
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What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I spent $100 of my recent unconditional cash transfer on something I had been dreaming of for a long time: a new bed and a high-density mattress. For years, I had been sleeping on traditional, uncomfortable beds that left me waking up in the morning with aches and pains, sometimes unable to attend to my daily duties. The new bed and mattress have transformed my sleep quality, allowing me to wake up feeling refreshed and ready to face the day. It's a simple luxury that has made a significant difference in my life. Next, I used part of the money to pay my son's eighth-grade school fees, amounting to $40. I had been worried that he might have to miss school due to the financial strain, but the cash transfer came at just the right time, ensuring he could continue his education. With the remaining amount, I made a strategic investment in our family's future by purchasing a dairy cow for $200. This cow would serve as a valuable asset, providing a steady source of income through milk production. It was not only a source of sustenance but also a symbol of hope for better days ahead. My husband and I continued to work any job that came our way, and with the extra money, we secured enough food to keep our family of three well-nourished. The unconditional cash transfer has truly transformed our lives, bringing stability and comfort to our humble home.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
With their unconditional cash transfers, I've been able to ensure that my children receive a quality education by promptly paying their school fees. This has not only relieved a significant financial burden but has also paved the way for my children's brighter future through education. Additionally, I've been able to invest in livestock, which has not only provided a source of income but has also improved our overall well-being. Thanks to GiveDirectly's assistance, my family now has a more secure and promising path ahead, and for that, I am immensely grateful.
How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
In the coming year and beyond, my primary goal is to expand my livestock holdings. I aim to acquire more livestock, not only as a source of income but also as a financial safety net in case of unexpected emergencies. By carefully building up my herd, I'll be better prepared to sell them if the need arises, providing a vital financial cushion for my family. This plan not only ensures our financial stability but also reflects my commitment to the well-being and security of my loved ones.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($388 USD)
access_time 1 year ago
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What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
As the unconditional cash transfer was deposited into my account, I felt a wave of relief wash over me, an opportunity to improve my living conditions. With a determined spirit, I made my first purchases. Ten bags of cement came for $70. Alongside that, I invested $180 in hardcore, essential for the renovations I had planned for my humble abode. My goal was to transform my house, to plaster and floor it, so that it would become a place of comfort and appeal.
But there were pressing matters to attend to as well. My heart ached as my son was sent back home from school due to unpaid fees. I swiftly paid $50 towards his education, determined to provide him with the opportunities he deserved. Education is the key, and I wouldn't let financial struggles hinder my child's growth. With the necessary school fees settled, a weight lifted off my shoulders. As a casual laborer, my days were often filled with strenuous work, selling charcoal and firewood to make ends meet. This unconditional cash transfer granted me a temporary respite, and I decided to take a well-deserved break from my laborious routine. I knew that I had some food stored for my family, and that gave me solace. For once, I could breathe a little easier, knowing that my immediate needs were met. This unexpected relief allowed me to dream of a brighter future, where these renovations would bring about a positive change in our lives.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
Ever since I became a recipient of GiveDirectly, my life has taken a remarkable turn. Gone are the days when the shadows of insecurity loomed over my humble abode, as I now have sturdy pillars supporting my house, providing me with a newfound sense of safety and tranquility. No longer do I fear the strong winds or torrential rains that used to threaten our humble abode. But the transformation doesn't stop there. I now have access to food like never before. Gone are the days of enduring hunger for at least two days a week. The cash transfer has allowed me to provide nutritious meals for my loved ones every single day, filling their bellies with nourishment and their hearts with joy. GiveDirectly has truly changed my life, offering me a brighter future and a sense of stability I never thought possible.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I was lying in bed, feeling unwell when I heard the familiar sound of a message notification on my phone. Unable to read or write, I called upon my helper to assist me in deciphering the message. As she translated the words, I discovered that I had received my first transfer from GiveDirectly a generous sum of $550. Relief and joy washed over me, dispelling the doubts that had lingered in my mind. Now, like the others who had received assistance before me, I could dare to dream and hope for a brighter future.
Enrolled
access_time over 1 year ago
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
As a polygamous family, life has never been easy for me because our husband lacks a reliable source of income to support us. This means I have to engage myself in charcoal work to earn some cash for my upkeep. Since our area is affected by deforestation, trees are no longer available and it pushes me to dig out some tree remains to make the charcoal. In a month, I make $30 maximum which can not sustain all my needs since all this goes to food. My children's education has been affected the most because they are sent home frequently. This has affected their studies and as a mother, I have been feeling the pain. Hence, I consider financial instability as my biggest challenge.
What is the happiest part of your day?
The rains! As a farmer, I have for a long time missed the opportunity to work on my farm due to the prolonged drought seasons in our area. This has been the sole reason to focus on charcoal work. Surprisingly, this year has been a blessing to us since we have been receiving heavy rains. This has awakened my hope for a better life since I have already planted maize on my 4-acre piece of land. I am so optimistic about a good harvest that will relieve me from the harsh charcoal work. Hence, this is what has brought me joy.
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
Living in a polygamous family has posed a big challenge to me. Since I was married in this home, I have never spent my nights on a mattress. Rugged sacks on a roped bed have never been the norm. I have desired to buy a modern bed and a mattress but due to financial instability, this has never materialized. With this money, I feel my dream will soon come to reality. I plan to use $200 to offset this menace. Since my co-wife was also enrolled, we plan to pool some cash amounting to $300 each to have our house reinforced with stones and cement. This will change our livelihood for the better and life will never be the same. Part of the remaining amount will help me to venture into livestock keeping, more so goats. To start with, I will buy 10 of them which will multiply fast to earn me high profits in a short period. Hence this is generally what receiving this money means to me.