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.
There will be no further updates from this completed recipient.
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
53150 KES ($527 USD)
access_time over 5 years ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
I believe it is GiveDirectly that has enabled me have a business premise. My dream of owning a shop would have had to wait a little longer to be a reality. I am so indebted to GiveDirectly.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
I felt so much honored when we were told that GiveDirectly funds were unconditional. This meant that I was free to make choices on my own on what to do with the money. My experience with other NgOs has never been sweeter than this. Their criteria is fair to all. I have no reservations on how they conducted their duties.
What did you spend your second transfer on?
I spent my second transfer to complete my newly constructed business premise. I have a plot that is strategically located near a town center and i have always had a desire to start a business that will assist me raise more money and take good care of my family. I have not been able to save enough money to establish this business. I have just been able to struggle to make ends meet for my family and at least give my children some basic education. GiveDirectly came in handy to help me realize this dream of running my own business. As we speak, I have been able to pay school fees for the entire year for my son who is completing his secondary school this year. In the next few months, I will be able to stock my completed business premise and thus raise my living standards going forward. I also used part of the transfer to buy foodstuffs for the family. This has provided me with enough time and space to concentrate on my business project.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($545 USD)
access_time over 5 years ago
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Describe the biggest difference in your daily life.
The biggest difference in my daily life is that I have peace of mind to do other activities because I have cleared school fees for my son in secondary school which was so stressful.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
The moment I received the money, I was so happy because I have never received such amount before, I knew I would be able to pay school fees for my son and start a income generating activity.
What did you spend your first transfer on?
I spend my first transfer on buying building materials and built a shop, I'm still waiting for the second transfer to complete the building, I also bought a solar lamp for lighting. the remaining amount I bought food for the family and paid school fees for my son in secondary school.
Enrolled
access_time over 5 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
GiveDirectly has just come at the most prime time. Receiving this money means that our dream of starting our own business (a shop) will materialize. Accordingly, we shall gain more income and enjoy higher standards of living. Thanks a lot GD.
What is the happiest part of your day?
Afternoon is the happiest part of my day when I am socializing and interacting with my neighbors after completing my day's activities. This is the time that I get to learn various aspects about the society, and thus remain informed.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Since I was born in a very humble family, I could not pursue my dream of becoming a teacher. I dropped out of school at class four because I had no family support and lacked fees. Besides, I was forced to get married and establish my own family. Accordingly, we have been struggling to make ends meet. Unfortunately, we could not afford to pay school fees for our children - most of them could not even complete thier primary school studies. Had I completed my studies and become a teacher, we could be enjoying better standards of living. Hence, the biggest hardship I have faced in life is lack of funds to pursue my dream course.
