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?
It was around 9 AM when I was relaxing with my granddaughter when I heard a loud vibration from my phone. I was curious to know about the contents of the message but because I am illiterate I asked my helper to check where the message was coming from. Upon reading, she confirmed to me that it was an Mpesa from GiveDirectly. I felt so happy for this financial assistance which would transform my life.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The biggest difference in my daily life is that through the cash transfer, I was able to start poultry farming. This has been my dream for so many years since I am old and jobless, this is the only investment that I thought would make me not struggle like before. I did some research and realised that the layers( chicken) can do well in my region and they are in high demand. Currently, 30% of them have started laying eggs which makes me trust that I will start earning very soon. At least I will no longer have to depend on my grandchildren for the daily meals and all the basic needs.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I spent KES 10800 on buying a new bed and a high-density mattress. Ever since I was born, I never had the experience of sleeping on modern beds and I am so glad that my dream has finally come true. I no longer complain about the back pains like before. Also, I started poultry farming whereby I had to purchase 100 children at KES 10000, iron sheets and wire mesh at a total of KES 5000. I am positive that this business will do so well in my region considering that its climate is favourable. With the remaining amount, I bought a water tank worthy KES 2000 and enough foodstuffs for my family.
Enrolled
access_time over 2 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
I have for a long time admired sleeping on a modern bed and a mattress but due to financial instability, this has never been possible. This has forced me to continue spending nights on the floor using rugged sacks and this has contributed to my frequent body pain. Receiving this money, therefore, means improving my standard of living because I intend to spend a better portion of my first transfer, 30000 KES to ensure I acquire these necessities. On the other hand, I will spend the remaining amount to repair my house and also to buy some goats to have a long-term project that I will depend on whenever the need arises. Thus, this is generally the reason for this money in my household.
What is the happiest part of your day?
In November last year, my grandson brought home his wife to give me campany. This was something that gave me a feeling of happiness because I used to stay alone. Her presence at home has served me a great relief since she helps in doing many household chores like fetching water as well as cooking.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
In my life, I have faced a lot of challenges but financial instability currently tops the list. Considering my age of 72 years, I am no longer energetic to engage in intensive jobs like charcoal burning which is the main occupation in our area. This has forced me to depend on my grandson who is now an intern teacher. Sometimes, I miss food or survive on one meal a day something that has contributed to my deteriorating health.
