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 6 am in the morning I was cleaning the compound and I had my phone vibrating. So I decided to finish up cleaning up the compound first. When I had finished I went straight to where my phone was and looked at it. I found out that I had received money from Give Directly. I can’t even explain the joy had within me. I was very happy. I immediately decided to slaughter a chicken to celebrate the occasion. Mind you it’s not a common thing for us to eat chicken unless it’s a special occasion or someone very special is visiting. I then informed my father’s brother who was at that time around and I could see how pleased he was.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The biggest difference is that I am able to provide for my family now that I was able to boost my business. Previously I used to sleep hungry. My husband’s job majorly is contract based and once the job is over its hard to get another one. His charcoal business is also not that reliable. For now I have a reliable job and can be able to provide for my family adequately.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I did spend the amount in buying goats for rearing, I then went ahead and added stock to my existing business since the stock was running out. I then bought clothes, utensils and food for my family. The remaining amount I loaned my mother some amount and promised to repay at a later date.
Enrolled
access_time over 2 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
Receiving this money means continued education for my family. I plan to achieve this by Spending Kshs.42,000 to buy goats of Borana origin at Kshs.6,000 each. This is because they are marketable and therefore, will enable me to have an asset that will use to educate my children.I will also produce milk for my own consumption.
What is the happiest part of your day?
The happiest part of my day is in the afternoon.This is because I get enough time to relux.Unlike in the morning and evening hours when Iam tired after the household chores.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
The biggest hardship I have ever faced in my life is food insecurity. I am a housewife and rely on my husband who depends on a charcoal burning business that earns him very little. Due to this, I have always been struggling to put food on the table. Sometimes, I am forced to seek help from relatives which is an annoying situation.
