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.
How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
My focus is on cultivating maize and beans. Fortuitously, my father owns a three-quarter piece of land that lies fallow. With his permission, I plan to utilize this land for my agricultural endeavors. This opportunity is particularly timely, as I am navigating life as a single mother to three children after separation. My strategy involves harnessing irrigation farming, which promises a consistent and reliable yield regardless of seasonal changes. By doing so, I aim to produce enough food to sustain my family and generate a surplus. Selling this excess produce will provide a vital source of income. This agricultural venture is more than just a means of livelihood; it's a step towards my family's stability. It represents hope and resilience. As we embark on this journey, the land, once idle, will become a testament to our perseverance and determination to build a brighter future.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
I am deeply grateful for the support I received from GiveDirectly, especially when I was expectant and navigating life as a single mother. Their assistance arrived at a crucial juncture and made a significant difference in my life. The timing of their support couldn’t have been more perfect. The officers from GiveDirectly were commendable for their straightforward and focused approach. The enrollment process was free and fair, with no costs involved, which was a relief. Their policy of not accepting meals during visits was particularly considerate. This aspect saved me both the cost and stress of figuring out what to offer them, especially when I had nothing. I extend my heartfelt thanks to GiveDirectly and sincerely hope they continue with this approach. Their empathy and fairness have helped me and set a remarkable example for how support programs can be effectively and respectfully administered.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Upon receiving $450 from GiveDirectly, I allocated $30 for food to sustain my family of three children. After separating from my husband, I've been raising them alone. Previously, I ran a hotel, but I had to close it when I went on maternity leave for my twins. Currently, I support my family by hawking fruits. I invested $110 in a smartphone. This device is a tool for applying for jobs that match my academic qualifications and aids in marketing my fruits. I decided to invest $173 in building a new house for us. We live in a grass-thatched house, which I built upon returning from my matrimonial home. However, the challenges of rain and ants necessitated a more durable, iron-sheet one. Recently, one of my twins fell ill with pneumonia, resulting in a hospital stay where I spent $67 on medical bills. I've also set aside $50 in savings to prepare for any unforeseen expenses. Thank you GiveDirectly for your immense support.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
20000 KES ($131 USD)
access_time 11 months ago
attach_money
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I distinctly remember receiving a message from GiveDirectly while I was at home, diligently washing clothes for my twins. The overwhelming feeling hit me as I read the message indicating that I had received money from GiveDirectly. This brought me immense joy because I knew I could now afford to buy clothes for my children, who were in need. The financial constraints resulting from my separation from my husband and my focus on caring for my twins had made it challenging to make such purchases. I am delighted that the transfer has brought considerable happiness into my life.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The biggest difference in my life derived from the newfound ability to provide clothes for my children, a luxury that financial constraints had previously denied us after I stopped working. This positive change brings me immense joy and relief. Additionally, with the support received, I have ensured that our home is well-stocked with enough food to cater to the needs of my children and myself. This newfound sense of security and fulfillment is truly heartening.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Previously, I operated an eatery, but regrettably, I had to cease its operations temporarily as I took a break for maternity leave. Despite encountering the challenges associated with single parenthood after parting ways with my husband recently, I find solace in my three children. The assistance received from GiveDirectly marked a turning point, enabling me to address pressing needs. Recognizing the importance of providing for my children, I spent $58 towards purchasing clothes, a luxury constrained by financial limitations, particularly with the arrival of newborn twins. Additionally, I invested $13 in acquiring household essentials such as utensils and $11 in securing food supplies. The remaining funds were prudently saved, symbolizing a newfound financial stability. The profound impact of this support on my living standards is a source of enduring gratitude.
Enrolled
access_time 1 year ago
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
Receiving the cash transfers means so much to me and my family. I plan to use the first cash transfers to provide for my two newborn babies. I will purchase food and clothes for both my children and me. I intend to spend about $10 of the transfers on this. I also intend to lease 1 hectare of land which I will plant maize. With $400 of the transfers, I will accomplish this. Planting maize will provide me with the much-needed food and cash to take care of my children. For the remaining amount, I intend to build an iron sheet house and purchase two goats and some chickens. I'm living in a grass thatched house which is not conducive since it gets destroyed by rains and livestock eat the grass. The goats and chicken will be my investment that I'll sell whenever I'm in need in the future. When I receive the cash transfers I believe my life will surely transform positively.
What is the happiest part of your day?
My happiness over the past 6 months is my twin children, Kiprop and Jepchirchir. I was blessed this month with my beautiful twins which has brought me much joy and delight despite the challenges I'm facing currently.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Having been blessed with twins a few weeks ago, I feel I'm faced with a great lot of challenges. Firstly, the father of my children refused to take care of children which has left me to provide and take care of them on my own. This sometimes brings tears to my eyes since I can't work and have to depend on my elderly mother who can't barely make ends meet. Additionally, I have a heart problem and suffer from a stomach ulcer which is a big challenge since I can't do hard casual labor which depend on. My life is very hard.