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.
Stages:
 
Enrollment
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Transfers
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Completed
Newsfeed > Selina's Profile
Selina's family
Selina
landscapeCountry:
kenya
workOccupation:
Casual labor
faceAge:
25
workCampaign
Kenya Large Transfer
There will be no further updates from this completed recipient.
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
53010 KES ($360 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?
I hope to open up a grocery business in Nairobi because food is a basic commodity that we all need to use. I hope to use the profits from the retail shop business and the savings accumulated over time to open this venture. I will be glad that my family of two will be financially stable. It is a simple dream rooted in the necessity of life, one that promises not only sustenance but also a sense of security for those I care about. In a bustling city like Nairobi, where people from all walks of life come together, providing a reliable source of groceries seems like a meaningful way to contribute to the community while securing a better future for my loved ones.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
Through GiveDirectly's unconditional cash transfers, families have seen their lives transformed. These transfers provide a means of escape from poverty and empower those who receive them to make important decisions for their future. Many have used these funds to start businesses, creating lasting income sources that go beyond immediate relief. Additionally, families have been able to invest in housing, improving living conditions, and enhancing their overall well-being. GiveDirectly's approach empowers individuals to tailor solutions to their specific needs, making a significant impact in the fight against poverty.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
As a single mother of one, life at times can be challenging, but then I have to make ends meet. Thank you, GiveDirectly, for making this a success. When I received my transfers, I spent $150 on opening a retail shop business, aiming to generate a steady income for my family of two. I also purchased clothing for $50 and bedding for $100, ensuring that my family is comfortable while sleeping. For the remaining funds, I wisely saved them in the bank as a safety net for any unforeseen expenses or future business growth. This financial prudence not only secures my family's financial stability but also allows for potential expansion of the retail business down the road. I am filled with excitement and gratitude, knowing that I have taken steps to meet the needs of my family. This venture not only provides me with a source of income but also brings a sense of accomplishment and security to our household.
 
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($386 USD)
access_time 1 year ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I was at home, taking a moment to relax after a day of working in the farm, when the message arrived at 3 pm. The news filled me with an overwhelming sense of joy. At that time, our house was in a state of despair, and my greatest wish was to have a safe and comfortable home. For a month, we had been living in challenging conditions, as parts of our home had fallen apart. This left us exposed to the cold weather and the risk of dangerous crawling animals like snakes. The situation was not only uncomfortable but also posed a significant threat to our safety and well-being. The message, perhaps from GiveDirectly brought a glimmer of hope, it signified a potential turning point in our lives, a chance to rebuild our home and create a secure living environment for ourselves and our family. The excitement and gratitude that washed over me at that moment were indescribable. The support we received would not only provide physical shelter but also offer peace of mind, knowing that we would be protected from the harsh elements and potential dangers. I couldn't help but feel thankful for the generosity and compassion of those who extended a helping hand to our family.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
There are notable differences in my life right now, thanks to the immense support from GiveDirectly. I have a running business that earns me a daily amount of money, enabling me to save more than ever before. This is a stark contrast to the past when we struggled to have enough food and depended on daily income just to eat. Previously, I was engaged in the charcoal business, which was inconsistent, and on days when I couldn't find customers, my family would sleep hungry. It was a challenging and uncertain time for us. However, with the help of GiveDirectly, my life has taken a positive turn. Now, I can save money and secure a better future for myself and my family. I am immensely grateful to GiveDirectly for the assistance they have provided. Their support has made a significant impact on my life, bringing stability and hope for a brighter tomorrow.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
We wisely utilized the $250 we received to build a new house, covering both materials and labor expenses. This decision brought us an immense sense of satisfaction and relief, especially compared to the difficult time when we were living under a house with holes on the walls and roofing. The new home provides us with a secure and comfortable living space, protecting us from the elements and potential dangers. To further enhance our quality of life, we used $100 to purchase food. This move ensures that we no longer have to worry about daily sustenance, a significant improvement from the past when such concerns were a constant burden. In pursuit of financial security, we ventured into a flower-selling business, starting with a capital of $50. This small business endeavor is a step towards shielding us financially and creating a source of income that can sustain our needs. In addition, we had the foresight to save $150 as an emergency fund. This reserve will prove invaluable in case unexpected situations arise, providing a safety net and peace of mind. Overall, the support from GiveDirectly has significantly improved our lives, bringing tangible improvements to our living conditions and providing opportunities for economic empowerment.
 
Enrolled
access_time over 1 year ago
 
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
Being a standard 8 leaver has disadvantaged me a lot. This was the reason for my vulnerability and hence, the early pregnancy. The lesson I have in life is that a reliable source of income is the key to a better life. I have for a long time desired to have dress-making skills but since I do not have money to pay the college fees, this has never materialized. The grant from GiveDirectly is a dream come true since I am so optimistic about making it a reality. I intend to spend utmost $300 to pay for the fees as well as to purchase the sewing machine. This will guarantee me the opportunity to have a decent job that I can rely on. Part of the transfer ($400) will help me to construct a 1-roomed iron roofed house for myself. This will spare us from the daily worries of sleeping in a disastrous house. I will spend the remaining amount on food, new clothes, and beddings to replace the old ones. Hence, this is generally what receiving this money means to me.
What is the happiest part of your day?
Despite my casual jobs being inconsistent, this has been giving me happiness over the last 6 months. Although this happens twice a week, the $1.5 per day means a lot to me. I have been able to take care of my son. In addition, the support from my parents has been overwhelming. They do not disregard me as part of their family despite being a single mother, and this also serves as a reason to put a smile on my face. Hence, I consider this as what has brought me joy.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Imagine being a single mother of 1 at the age of 25 years! This has been the toughest moment for me because I have the role of raising my son single-handedly. Considering my casual jobs which are not consistent and their income is usually low ($1.5) per day, it has been so difficult for me. At home, I occupied a house which collapsed part of its walls and I have not managed to repair it. This has posed me with the risk of night colds and other health problems. Living in this house has devoured my peace of mind since I do not have any privacy. Any passers-by can see us when we are asleep. What a shame! I, therefore, consider the lack of a stable source of income as my biggest challenge.