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 > Paul's Profile
Paul's family
Paul
landscapeCountry:
kenya
workOccupation:
Casual labor
faceAge:
40
workCampaign
Kenya Large Transfer
There will be no further updates from this completed recipient.
3rd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($276 USD)
access_time 4 months 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, my goal is to venture into farming, particularly beekeeping. I have a hopeful wish for sufficient rainfall to also till the land. This farming endeavor holds the promise of sustaining my family. The proceeds from selling honey will be directed towards educating my children, ensuring that they have access to the opportunities that education provides. This plan represents my aspiration for a more sustainable and fulfilling future for both my family and me.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
GiveDirectly is doing a good job because it allows everyone to use the money they receive to address their own specific needs. I don't have any recommendations because they should just continue doing what they are doing now.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Upon receiving my most recent transfers of $450 from GiveDirectly, I prioritized investing in the education of my children. With three of them currently in high school, I used $450 to cover their school fees. Education holds immense value for me, and I firmly believe it is a sustainable investment in their future. Recognizing the importance of providing my children with educational opportunities, I directed the funds towards ensuring they have access to quality schooling. This decision aligns with my belief that education is a key factor in shaping their lives and future prospects. By investing in their education, I am not only securing their individual growth but also contributing to the overall well-being and sustainability of our family.
 
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($295 USD)
access_time 6 months ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
In the coming year and beyond, my goal is to elevate my business, thereby enhancing my farming endeavors with the generated income. The plan is to use the proceeds from the business to invest in certified seeds and acquire essential inputs, such as irrigation equipment. This strategic approach aims to bolster our farming practices, ensuring productivity even during the dry seasons. I am enthusiastic about this vision as it aligns with a comprehensive strategy to improve both my business and agricultural activities for sustained growth and success.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
The generous support from GiveDirectly has proven incredibly valuable, particularly due to the versatility of the cash support that can be allocated to various projects. It has enabled me to cover school fees, enhance my farming initiatives, and fortify my business, laying a foundation for sustained self-sufficiency. I appreciate the organization's commitment to ensuring recipients engage in constructive endeavors, and I have not encountered any issues, as their guidance about responsible use, including the caution against alcohol misuse, has been clear and effective.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I utilized the second transfer to enhance my maize milling business, based in the nearby shopping center. Investing $215, I purchased five sacks of maize to replenish my stock, which had been depleted by daily household expenses and my children's school fees. Managing a family of 10, the funds brought relief as I boosted my main source of income. I allocated $28 to buy additional food supplies, easing the burden of our household expenses. Allocating $45, I acquired a goat to expand my existing herd. Though I desired more, the urgency of paying school fees for my two children in secondary school took precedence. I dedicated the remainder to settling their fee arrears, ensuring an uninterrupted term, and they will start the next semester without financial hindrance in January. Relying on the posho mill business and farming, which can be unreliable due to weather conditions, this support has been instrumental, and I'm grateful for the positive changes it brought to our lives.
 
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
20000 KES ($139 USD)
access_time 9 months ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I have a clear memory of the time when I was on my way to a parent-teacher meeting at my children's school. Out of the blue, my phone started ringing, and when I checked it, I found out that GiveDirectly had sent money. The happiness and delight I felt at that moment are indescribable. I knew very well that this unexpected transfer had the potential to completely transform my living situation, something that seemed out of reach before due to financial limitations. With great excitement, my family and I started making plans for how we would wisely use this cash infusion.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
Currently, the biggest difference in life is the ability to maintain a substantial food reserve. This has effectively alleviated my family from the struggles of hunger that we used to confront due to financial constraints. The sincere joy and satisfaction that arise from these accomplishments have notably diminished my experience of stress.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I operate a small scale maize milling business in our village, and my wife is dedicated to farming. Our family includes a total of eight children. Upon receiving my transfer, my immediate focus was on acquiring sufficient food supplies for our household, as this was the most urgent requirement at the time. This task posed a challenge due to the limited income generated by my business and added responsibility of school fees. Consequently after receiving the transfer, I spent $170 towards purchasing essential food item. The remaining funds were utilised to carry out a necessary repairs on my motorbike. I am absolutely thrilled that I could successfully ensure an adequate food supply for my family, putting an end to days of going to bed hungry. This accomplishment brings joy and relief.
 
Enrolled
access_time 11 months ago
 
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
Receiving this transfer means a better future for my family of ten. I have three children in secondary school and another one in college. Raising their school fees has been a challenge and most of the time they are sent home to collect school fees. I want to use the first transfer to clear the arrears and also ensure there is enough food for my family. For the rest of the transfers, I shall purchase livestock and a water tank. I am thankful for give directly will change my life for the better.
What is the happiest part of your day?
I thank God for good health since in the last six months, none of my family was taken ill. Despite the challenges I am happy because I do not have to worry about their healthiness and all of us can do our normal chores comfortably.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
I live in a semi-arid area and due to the inconsistent rainfall, food insecurity is a challenge. I planted maize with the onset of the rainy season in April, unfortunately, it all dried up for lack of rain. I currently rely on casual jobs to put food on the table for my family of ten. Sometimes it is difficult to buy maize flour consistently and we are forced to eat a single meal each day.