GDLive Newsfeed
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.
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Newsfeed > Richard's Profile
Richard's family
Richard
landscapeCountry:
kenya
workCampaign
Kenya RCT Basic Income
Upcoming Stage
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Follow to be updated on Richard's next check-in.
 
72nd Payment
Transfer Amount
2950 KES ($23 USD)
access_time 13 days ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
My primary goal is to build a bigger house for myself. Currently, we reside in a modest dwelling, but I aspire to provide a more spacious and comfortable home . To achieve this dream, I have devised a plan to supplement my income by engaging in casual work alongside diligently saving and investing the monthly support I receive from GiveDirectly. I am hopeful that with time, I will be able to realize this long-cherished dream of constructing a larger and more suitable residence for myself. I am confident that by working hard and remaining focused on my goal, I will eventually be able to turn this dream into a tangible reality.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
One of the best aspects of GiveDirectly approach was the equal empowerment of all recipients, regardless of our backgrounds or circumstances. There was a genuine sense of fairness in how they treated each of us. This equality in assistance not only addressed immediate financial needs but also fostered a sense of dignity and respect among us. Another aspect I appreciated was GiveDirectly's emphasis on financial responsibility and security. They provided valuable guidance on how to manage and safeguard the funds received, educating us about the importance of avoiding fraudsters and making wise financial decisions. I am truly grateful to GiveDirectly for their holistic approach to empowering individuals and communities, ensuring that the impact of their support extends far beyond the initial transfer of funds.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Receiving unconditional money from GiveDirectly has been a turning point in my life. I don't have a wife at the moment. With the financial support, I decided to invest $30 into my farming activities to enhance my livelihood. I allocated $18 towards purchasing essential foodstuffs to sustain myself while I work on improving my farming venture. This investment in agriculture is aimed at elevating my living standards and securing a better future for myself. The support from GiveDirectly has empowered me to make strategic decisions and allocate resources wisely for long-term benefits. Since I started receiving the monthly transfer, I have seen significant positive changes in my life. By investing the funds into my farming endeavors, I have been able to increase productivity and efficiency on my farm. This has not only improved my income but also boosted my confidence and sense of purpose. I am grateful to GiveDirectly for providing this opportunity and for their transparent and effective approach to supporting individuals like me in pursuing sustainable economic growth. With continued dedication, I am optimistic about achieving further progress and success in the future.
 
68th Payment
Transfer Amount
2950 KES ($19 USD)
access_time 5 months ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
My aim is to maximize the potential of my land and turn it into a thriving source of sustenance and income. I've decided to dedicate half an acre of my land to maize cultivation. Not only will this endeavor contribute to my income, but it will also ensure that I am food secure. There's something so rewarding about cultivating crops and seeing them grow, knowing they'll provide for my family and maybe even a surplus to sell at the market. To make this plan a reality, I'll combine the earnings from my casual labor with the support I receive from GiveDirectly. This combined fund will serve as my starting capital for investing in the seeds, tools, and resources necessary for a successful maize harvest. It's a calculated approach, one that I hope will yield a bountiful return and secure a brighter future for my family.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
Receiving unconditional money from GiveDirectly has been a true game-changer in my life. What stood out the most was the lack of strings attached to the money. This freedom allowed me to use the money in the best possible way to meet my immediate needs, whether it was covering essential expenses, investing in my small business, or even saving for unforeseen circumstances. The unconditional nature of the support from GiveDirectly empowered me to make choices that mattered most to me and my family. Moreover, the fact that the money is given monthly has been incredibly helpful in providing a consistent source of support. This monthly support has enabled me to plan better, ensuring that I can allocate the funds effectively to cover ongoing expenses and work towards long-term goals. The clarity and regularity of the support from GiveDirectly have played a significant role in stabilizing my financial situation, allowing me to focus on building a better future for myself and my loved ones. Everything about GiveDirectly's approach has been well-explained and executed, making a tangible, positive impact on my life.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I used part of the money to buy fertilizer, which I know will significantly boost my crop yield. Alongside that, I invested in bean seeds for planting, aiming to diversify my crops and ensure a more stable income. The rest of the money was split between securing some essential food items for my family and household necessities. I've been using these transfers to maintain a steady supply of household food items like sugar and baking flour, ensuring that we always have the basics at home. It's crucial to me that my family has enough to eat, and these cash transfers have been a real help in that regard.To supplement our income, I rely on casual labor. It's not always easy, but it's what I can do to ensure that we have enough resources. We currently live with my mother, and I'm grateful for the support system we have. The cash transfer has made a difference in our lives, especially during planting seasons, allowing us to invest in our crops and secure essential items for our household.
 
64th Payment
Transfer Amount
2950 KES ($20 USD)
access_time 8 months ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
I have embarked on quite an exciting project this year - building my very own house. Right now, I have managed to acquire 7 iron sheets for the roof, but my goal for the coming year is to double that number to 16. It is a small step, but it is progress, and it brings me one step closer to having a place I can truly call my own. To make this dream a reality, I will use a portion of the transfers I receive, which have been a lifeline, and I also contribute with money earned from casual labor. It is not always easy, but I am willing to put in the effort because I have a clear vision of what I want to achieve. The main driving force behind this endeavor is my desire to start a family. I am eager to get married, and I want to provide a comfortable and spacious home for my future wife and children. This house is not just a structure; it is a symbol of the life I hope to create, and I am determined to see it through to completion in the coming year.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
What stood out most was the absolute freedom they gave us in deciding how to use the funds. This level of trust was incredibly empowering. Moreover, GiveDirectly's process was exemplary. Everything was well explained, from the application to the disbursement of funds. This transparency fostered trust and made us feel genuinely supported throughout the entire process. It is not often you find an organization that not only gives without strings attached but also ensures you understand every step of the way. GiveDirectly's approach has left a lasting impact, not just in the monetary sense but in how they respect and empower the individuals they serve.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Every month, I receive this cash transfer, and I have learned to use it wisely to take care of my household needs. One of the first things I do is head to the local market to buy essential food items. It is a relief knowing that I can provide my mother and myself with nutritious meals without worrying about where to get money. With some of the money from the cash transfer, I was also able to invest in a small maize farming project. I bought maize seeds and fertilizer, and I have been working hard on our little plot of land. It is not only a source of food but also a way to generate some income. I am determined to make a better life for myself and my mother. I currently do casual labor to earn extra money to buy other household items and save for the future. My dream is to soon have a stable income, because I am hoping to marry and start a family. With the unconditional cash transfers, I feel like I am taking steps in the right direction towards a brighter future for all of us.
 
60th Payment
Transfer Amount
2950 KES ($22 USD)
access_time 1 year ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
In the next one year and beyond I hope to accomplish a lot with help of GD transfers. I do not have another alternative source of income except for casual work which is sometimes hard to find.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
In my opinion GiveDirectly does very well by giving support in form of cash. Having this transfer has ensired that we have enough cash
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I used all of my recent transfer of 500 to buy food and 2400 was used to buy fertilizers and maize seeds for planting. It was a planting season and it was only right that I do this. Without GD I would have gotten money through casual work that I engage in. The money has greatly booster us at a time that we may not be having money to buy food.
 
56th Payment
Transfer Amount
2950 KES ($24 USD)
access_time over 1 year ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
Since the monthly transfer has been insufficient to purchase construction materials for my house, I intend to continue using a portion of it to improve my farming activities, which will aid in the purchase of construction materials after the harvest. I plan to build in stages, and I am currently sourcing the bricks that will be used on the walls; once all of the walls are complete, I will purchase iron sheets.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
The ability to spend all of our money on whatever we want has allowed us to make many changes in our lives that would not have been possible without the support. Since we enrolled in the program, I have been grateful to GiveDirectly for their consistent support and fulfillment of their promises. We also received clear information during the enrollment period and have been in constant phone contact with the office while reporting on receipts and spending decisions. The project was flawlessly executed, and I wish GiveDirectly continued success in assisting other communities.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I live with my mother, who receives the same amount from GiveDirectly, and I have always helped her pay the majority of the household bills. Despite the fact that I intend to start building a new house, the largest portion of the funds I have received has been used to purchase food. I have been buying in small quantities due to the high cost of food. I spent $21 from the most recent transfer on maize, sugar, toiletries, and other household goods that we are still using today. I also spent $5 of the remaining funds on bean seeds and $3 on pea seeds, which I will plant after harvesting maize on our parcel of land.
 
52nd Payment
Transfer Amount
2950 KES ($25 USD)
access_time over 1 year ago
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The recipient was not asked any questions as part of this follow up.
 
47th Payment
Transfer Amount
2950 KES ($26 USD)
access_time 2 years ago
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The recipient was not asked any questions as part of this follow up.
 
44th Payment
Transfer Amount
2950 KES ($26 USD)
access_time over 2 years ago
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The recipient was not asked any questions as part of this follow up.
 
40th Payment
Transfer Amount
2950 KES ($27 USD)
access_time over 2 years ago
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The recipient was not asked any questions as part of this follow up.
 
36th Payment
Transfer Amount
2950 KES ($28 USD)
access_time almost 3 years ago
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The recipient was not asked any questions as part of this follow up.
 
32nd Payment
Transfer Amount
2280 KES ($21 USD)
access_time over 3 years ago
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The recipient was not asked any questions as part of this follow up.
 
28th Payment
Transfer Amount
2280 KES ($21 USD)
access_time over 3 years ago
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The recipient was not asked any questions as part of this follow up.