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 10 o'clock I had attended a funeral service at our neighbor's home when I received the message alert on my phone. I was surprised after confirming that it was the transfer from GiveDirectly that I was promised during the enrollment stages. I felt extremely happy for receiving the transfer that would transform my life for the better. Being an old widow who had not been blessed with kids, I had to plan well before I could start to spend the transfer since did not have anyone to depend on.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
Nowadays I am spending my nights on proper bedding after acquiring a new modern mattress using the transfer. Unlike before when I used to sleep on the floor using sacks. Furthermore, I feel confident that I own a proper latrine and no longer worried about our safety.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I spent KES 30,000 to construct a modern toilet for the family. This is because the one we were using earlier was collapsing and had cracks on the floor and walls. This was very risky for our lives and worried that it may fall when using it. Currently, I am happy that I own and use a decent modern permanent latrine. In addition, I used KES 2,000 to purchase a solar panel on hire purchase that is providing enough source of light to my house. Before, I could knock my head on the wall during the night while going to the toilet because of the darkness. I also bought 3 goats for KES 10,500 in order to start livestock rearing a future investment for myself. Lastly, I purchased proper beddings for KES 9000 to purchase proper bedding.
Enrolled
access_time over 2 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
I am a widow with no one to support me as the only child I had passed away. Due to my old age, I can no longer provide for myself. Receiving this money means food security and proper beddings. The bed I sleep on has neither mattress nor beddings on it.
What is the happiest part of your day?
After my husband and my child passed away. I was desolate with no one to support me. My sister gave me refuse at her matrimonial home. I am grateful and happy for her act of kindness.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
I am currently suffering from hernia and I have not yet visited any hospital due to lack of funds. This coupled with my old age has made it difficult for me to do the manual quarry job I used to do.
