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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2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
53150 KES ($441 USD)
access_time over 1 year ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
Since our area has a shortage of vegetables, I have a goal of starting a grocery once I get some money. By so doing, I am confident of making good sales because most people walk a long distance in search of the same. To achieve this goal, I started a "bodaboda" business of ferrying light luggage and people from one place to another using my motorbike.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
It is my pleasure to inform you that, I am delighted for receiving the money because it aided me in different areas which I would not have been able to handle. The transfer helped me to restore my confidence by enabling me to pay the remaining part of the dowry hence I am now confident to be in the presence of my in-laws. Traditionally, it is a sign of respect and you are highly valued by your in-laws if you complete the dowry payment.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
When I received the second transfer, I opted to complete the roofing of my house which I had started using the first transfer. I bought 20 pieces of iron sheets for KES 19000.00, roofing timbers for KES 7200.00 and the labor charge was KES 3500.00. I also took KES 20000.00 and paid a dowry for my wife because the fact that I had not completed the payment was not giving me confidence when in contact with my in-laws. Thereafter, I paid KES 2000.00 school fees for my children and used the remaining amount for the family upkeep.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($466 USD)
access_time almost 2 years ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
While I was at my work at around 5 pm, I heard a message on my phone. When I checked it was the transfer from GiveDirectly. My heart was filled with happiness for the deed expressed by the organization. This happiness was a result of receiving a huge amount of money.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The main difference that I can attest to GiveDirectly is that the organization empowered me to add a second room since my house was too small. I am also grateful to the organization for enabling me to get a bed and a mattress. Initially, I used to sleep on a traditional bed but now I enjoy being on a nice modern bed.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
When I withdrew the money, the first thing I thought of was a bed and a mattress. I placed them a priority because the place I called a bed was unpleasing and pathetic. The bed and the mattress cost KES 8500.00. Thereafter, I paid KES 2000.00 for my two young children. I am happy because the money went exactly what I wanted to do.
Enrolled
access_time 2 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
Receiving this money means a dignified life for me. I live in a single-room house. With a family of two children, this house is very small to accommodate us. I have not been able to expand it because I do not have sufficient funds. I work as a motorcycle taxi rider. A 200 KES a day income cannot enable me to renovate the house. I am planning to use 30,000 KES to expand my house to 3 rooms. A big space will guarantee self-respect and ease the congestion.
What is the happiest part of your day?
My uncle promised to buy a motorcycle for me 2 weeks ago. This made me very happy because it means a higher income. I have been using my friend's motorcycle for a year now. This earns me very little because I have to remit a certain percentage of my earnings to him.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
I work as a motorcycle taxi operator. This occupation does not earn me enough income. Sometimes my children fall sick and I am unable to clear their hospital bills because the 200 KES income I make per day goes into buying food.
