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 biggest difference in your daily life.
I am currently running a restaurant that I started with the GiveDirectly transfers. I get daily profits which I use for meeting the basic needs of my family for instance buying food, smearing oils and paying medical bills. Previously, I offered casual labor for survival. I could be given a lot of work to do with little pay but I had no option because that was the only source of money.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
When I heard people ululating in the village because the money had reached their phones, I run to the neighbor to help me check if the money was in my phone too since I do not know how to read. when he told me that the money was on the phone, I became so happy.
What did you spend your first transfer on?
I spent my first transfer for buying a cow at UGX 730,000, a mattress, kitchen utensils (a dozen of plates, 2 saucepans, food basket), clothes, water drum and bed sheets. I spent some money on food and I am using UGX 120,000 as capital for running a restaurant.
Enrolled
access_time 5 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
Receiving this money means I will be able to buy five cows that will reproduce. I intend that they multiply so that I can be able to sell them off at a later stage and raise money that can buy a piece of land for my children Since I am a single parent.
What is the happiest part of your day?
I am happiest in the morning when my children wake up healthy. I feel peace in my heart.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
The biggest hardship that I am faced with is taking care of my children alone as a single parent. I take care of my children's medical needs, feeding and others alone. The father never bothers to support even when he is aware. I do casual labour so as to be able to raise money to take care of their needs.
