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 ($525 USD)
access_time almost 5 years ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
The biggest difference in my life is that I have purchased two small heifers. Having them is an added advantage because when they shall have grown to a point of reproducing, I shall have added security to lean on during a financial crisis. Secondly, my family now has a stable fishing business after buying fishing nets with GiveDirectly's transfers from which my husband gets good income that sustain our family. Thanks to GiveDirectly.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
GiveDirectly uplifted the entire community through provision of money which had no condition on it . Today, most of the beneficiaries have acquired new houses , started small business , children are going to school out of GiveDirectly's courtesy. I do no see where GiveDirectly did wrong at its work.
What did you spend your second transfer on?
I spent my second transfer to buy a pair she - calves which in the foreseen future after rearing them correct way. I believe a part from the source of milk that the cows will give, I would be able to make and extra income through the sale of the extra milk that shall help us meet our daily needs. It will also help cut down the money spent on buying milk and instead invest in other projects with them . I also bought fishing nets which my spouse uses to fish since he is a fisherman. I saved the remaining amount to build a sleeping place for my children.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($545 USD)
access_time almost 5 years ago
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Describe the biggest difference in your daily life.
Before receiving the transfer, I would empathize with my children who were sleeping on mats. It was so embarrassing that I couldn't do anything about it because of financial constraints. The biggest difference so far in my daily life is the joy that I have gained after I bought bedding for them. I am glad that they are no longer complaining of not having enough rest at night. Secondly, I have built a kitchen. This has given me peace of mind since I do not worry about my grass-thatched house which served as a kitchen and living room as well. At least the worry of my house being destroyed by fire which was a high risk is a forgotten chapter.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I was informed by my husband that GiveDirectly had sent money . Upon hearing this, I felt very happy and relieved because before I was doubtful whether I will be among the lucky ones since GiveDirectly's enrollment process was very intensive .
What did you spend your first transfer on?
I spent my first transfer to building a kitchen. I appreciate the fact that I no longer cook in my main house. I bought two goats and five chicken. I settled school arrears for my two children who are in primary school . I bought utensil and clothes for my children . I also bought food for the Christmas celebrations.
Enrolled
access_time 5 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
I am peasant farmer growing maize , peas and cassava. I have wished expand my farm from the current 2.5 ha. to 5 ha. so that I may have enough food for my family of 8, but this has not been fulfilled due the the traditional way of farming( using hoes). Receiving this money means realization of my desire as I am planning to spend $ 380 to purchase oxen and ox- plough. This will assure me of enough food as will be able to cultivate my farm easily, A transformation I have longed for many years.
What is the happiest part of your day?
Morning is the happiest part of my day. Waking up healthy and energetic with my family give me peace of mind and hope for the day. I normally fell refreshed ready for my days activities in the farm after a good sleep over night.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Food insecurity has been my biggest hardship in my life. Currently, I can harvest 3 bags of maize from my farm which is just enough to feed my family for 3 months. This has forced us to go without food for some days something that has affected my children's nutritional need.
