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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3rd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($295 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?
My primary focus is on fortifying my livelihood through two key aspirations. Firstly, I am determined to fence my farm comprehensively, implementing a protective barrier that will shield my crops and land from the intrusion of wild animals. The persistent threat of these creatures has taken a toll on my efforts, and securing my farm would not only safeguard my hard work but also ensure a more sustainable and reliable source of income. Additionally, I aspire to expand my livestock by investing in more goats. These animals not only contribute to the economic viability of my farm but also serve as a valuable asset for the future.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
GiveDirectly has truly excelled in ensuring that the money reaches those who need it most. Their approach to providing unconditional cash transfers has been a lifeline for me and many others. The simplicity of receiving direct financial support allowed me to address my immediate needs with autonomy and dignity. Whether it was improving my living conditions, securing a better education for my children, or investing in income-generating activities, GiveDirectly's assistance has been instrumental. Their commitment to transparency and efficiency in channeling funds directly to recipients has made a tangible and positive impact on my life, empowering me to make the best choices for my unique circumstances.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Initially, the state of our home caused immense stress in my life. A small, cramped space barely accommodated our family of seven, forcing some of my children to seek shelter in the kitchen, which was nothing more than a temporary structure. During the rainy season, our situation was dire; the dilapidated roof of our small house leaked profusely, leaving us all exposed to the elements until the rain subsided. Desperate for change, I utilized $343 from the recent unconditional cash transfer to purchase building materials to put up a more spacious house. The relief I felt once the construction was complete and we no longer had to worry about being exposed to the rain was immeasurable. Finally, my family could live in a safer, more comfortable environment. Also, I spent $30 to buy goats. This strategic move isn't just about present well-being but also an investment in the future, especially concerning the education of my children. Furthermore, I used part of the funds to purchase a plastic chair, a seemingly simple item but a luxury for us. Now, when visitors come, I can offer them a proper seat instead of makeshift arrangements with logs. The remaining $50 was wisely spent on purchasing food for my family. Given the challenges my family faces and the low income from my husband's motorcycle job, putting food on the table has become a consistent challenge. This unconditional cash transfer has not only improved our living conditions but has also alleviated our daily struggles.
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($309 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 coming years and beyond, my plan is to establish a grocery business within my village. This endeavor holds great potential as an additional income source, considering the convenience it would provide to my neighbors. Observing them travel some distance to obtain supplies, I believe that offering these essentials nearby could be a beneficial opportunity for both the community and myself.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
One of the aspects that I truly appreciate about GiveDirectly is their direct transfer of funds to our mobile phones, without any involvement of third parties. This approach guarantees that the transfers reach the intended recipients in their entirety, ensuring transparency and effectiveness.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Being a farmer and with my husband relying on occasional motorcycle jobs, we often faced financial hardships. The second transfer has brought significant relief, allowing us to address our daily needs and pursue important projects. I allocated $110 from the transfer to secure food supplies for our family of eight. This was essential to ensuring a consistent and nutritious food source for our children's well-being. Furthermore, the transfers enabled us to begin realizing our dream of a larger and more comfortable house. Our current living space, consisting of a single room, is inadequate for our family's needs. We took the first step towards constructing a two-room dwelling, purchasing iron sheets worth $90. We are now awaiting the third transfer to continue the construction process. Additionally, I invested $50 in buying four chain links. Our goal is to establish a permanent fence on our two-acre land to protect our crops from the constant threat of domestic animals. I also used $50 to settle a food debt and $30 to purchase household items. To ensure our children have proper school uniforms, I allocated $50 to buy new ones, replacing their worn-out ones. I also acquired a ram using $60 to facilitate the breeding of my two female sheep.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
20000 KES ($140 USD)
access_time over 1 year ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
The memory of receiving my transfer remains exceptionally vivid, as I can still recall the intense happiness and excitement I felt on that day. I was out working on the farm, laboring under the blazing sun, when I suddenly heard my phone ringing. Upon checking, I discovered that I had been sent funds from GiveDirectly. It marked the most joyous day of my life, as I understood that my aspirations were now attainable, filling me with profound gratitude.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The biggest change in my daily existence is the relief from stress, as the assurance of abundant food in our household has replaced the previous struggle caused by financial hardships. I am forever grateful for the support that has significantly elevated our living standards.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Upon receiving the transfer, I deemed it necessary to allocate my initial funds towards purchasing essential food supplies for the household, considering my recent childbirth and the need for sufficient nourishment to regain strength. This prompted me to utilize $70. Subsequently, I settled a long-standing overdue debt with $40, then invested $27 in acquiring a larger storage container for clean water. The remaining funds were directed towards procuring medicine for my goats and other household necessities. As a farmer with my husband dependent on sporadic motorbike jobs, financial struggles were a constant. Blessed with six children, I now find joy in having ample food supplies in our home.
Enrolled
access_time over 1 year ago
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
I live in a small one-roomed house with my six children. The space is very small to accommodate all of us forcing my teenage son to sleep at a neighbor's house at the same time I cannot host visitors. I am so ashamed since there is a lack of privacy too having to share a room with my husband and children. I am not able to build a better house as the little money I get from my motorcycle business is enough for food and school levies only. When I receive these transfers, I will build a three-roomed iron sheet house where everyone in the family can sleep and stay comfortably. I am thankful to Give Directly for changing my life and I am assured of a better living ahead. I will also buy enough and nutritious food for my family.
What is the happiest part of your day?
My children make me happy always. Seeing them growing up healthy has been my joy. I managed to enroll all of them in school because I desire a good life for them. We keep praying to God for good health and protection.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
The lack of a stable source of income has been a great challenge. A motorcycle taxi earns me an average of $2 a day and all the money goes to purchasing food. Sometimes I borrow a loan when I do not get work to do and this has left me indebted for a very long time.