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 moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
It was around 4 pm, and I was at home, taking a moment to relax after a tiring day on the farm. I noticed my phone buzz with a message, but since I couldn't read, I asked my grandchild, who happened to be around, to check it for me. The excitement on his face as he read the message mirrored my feelings when he confirmed that I had received the first transfer from GiveDirectly. Joy overwhelmed me at the thought of having that amount, knowing it would enable me to build a better house. The prospect of a more comfortable and secure home filled my heart with gratitude, making me appreciate the support that came my way.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
I was trapped in a cycle of uncertainty by living in constant fear as my house crumbled under the relentless assault of heavy rains. However, my life took a remarkable turn when I received a cash transfer from GiveDirectly. The newfound financial support allowed me to break free from the limitations of depending solely on casual labor for survival. With the money, I joyfully embarked on the construction of a strong and safe house, replacing the crumbling shelter that had haunted me. Now, the fear has been replaced by happiness and a deep sense of security, as my family and I can enjoy our lives in a home that stands strong against the challenges of the weather. I am profoundly grateful for the positive change that GiveDirectly has brought into my life.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
With $30 of the transfer, I was able to invest in the education of my three primary school grandchildren by using it to pay their examination fees. It brought me immense joy to know that I could support their education, ensuring they took their end-of-year exams and wouldn't have to repeat classes. This opportunity was a lifeline for their academic progress, and I felt a deep sense of satisfaction in contributing to their success.
After taking care of the educational needs, I used the remaining $500 to purchase essential building materials like iron sheets, roofing timbers, poles, and rafters. With the help of a skilled expert, I constructed a nice and secure house. The new dwelling stands as a testament to the positive impact of GiveDirectly on my life, providing me with a safe and comfortable home. I am truly grateful for the support that has transformed not only my living conditions but also the prospects of my grandchildren.
Enrolled
access_time 7 months ago
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
I am a widow of two children . I live with one the other one is living in a nother location. I do casual jobs earning approximately $30 per month which caters for food only. Casual jobs are tedious with very low income that I cannot investment in any sustainable project. My community has been under drought for the past three years now making crop farming very difficult. I will use $1000 to buy generator and water pipes to go do irrigation along river Galana. This will bring sustainable food security to the family and also sell to the community and earn income.
What is the happiest part of your day?
I have been living a had light since my husband died twenty years ago. Over the last six months the only thing that brought happiness in my life is the gift of life from God. I have struggled to make ends meet since January but I am happy that I never went to hospital because of any sickness.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Housing is the challenge I am currently facing in life. I am living in a one room house with a mixture of iron sheets and grass roof and it leaks during rain season. I am a widow who works as a casual labor and my income goes to food thus I lack the capacity to build a decent house. During rain season I spend the whole night without sleeping.
