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.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I got a message on my cell phone that morning and upon checking, I realized it was an Mpesa from GiveDireclty. They had finally debited my first transfer as promised, I felt so happy. For I knew the money would change my life.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
My life is different now, I have my cow and I sleep well on a bed and a comfortable mattress. I feel stronger every morning after a deep sleep. I also look good in my newly acquired clothes. Previously, I did not have hope of life, as I couldn't afford to go to work to earn some income.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I spent part of my first transfer on buying some livestock such as chicken and dairy cow. This will now be the living assets that I can depend on just in case of my financial difficulties. I also bought some clothes as I use to wore only same clothes almost on a daily basis. The remaining amount of money, I bought enough foodstuffs for my family and some other household items.
Enrolled
access_time almost 5 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
Looking after cattle is a lighter duty I am comfortable with. Therefore when I receive this money I am going to buy a dairy cow to provide me with milk for consumption so as to eat healthy and acquire a dignified life I deserve in my old age.
What is the happiest part of your day?
Since my wife and I are old and cannot do much of the domestic chores, two of our grandchildren have come to stay with us. When they are out of school every evening they help with the chores and prepare some food for us. They are always exited to be around us which also make me happy. This is the happiest part of my day.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
I am getting old and cannot cope up with hard work like working in the farm. Since I do not have any source of income, my worry is that hunger and malnutrition is going to take a toll on my weak immune system when drought comes.
