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 9 a.m when I received the message notification on my phone. Being illiterate, I could not understand the message, I had to wait for my helper who had gone to town for work. When she returned, she confirmed on my phone and to my surprise, I had received the transfer. I felt extremely happy for receiving my transfer which would change my life for the better. I called my spouse to inform him about the same and was very excited, he promised to come home the next day so that we may plan on how to spend it.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The biggest difference in my daily life is that I am currently own a proper source of light for my house after purchasing solar light systems. Previously, I was sleeping in the dark because the kerosene lamp could not provide enough light and always require kerosene that is expensive. In addition, I am currently sleeping on proper beddings something that has made my nights enjoyable.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I spent KES 16,000 to purchase a solar panel, solar controller, battery, bulbs, and connecting wires. This was a renewal source of energy for my family. Previously, I was using a small kerosene lamp that did not provide enough light for the house. In addition, I bought a modern bed for KES 5000, this is because I was sleeping on a small traditional bed that had a broken leg which was uncomfortable. Similarly, It was very embarrassing whenever I was visited by an important guest. With the remaining amount, I am planning to invest it in boosting my goat rearing a reliable source of income for the family. I will be able to sell them when they multiply to cater for anything financial emergency.
Enrolled
access_time 2 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
Receiving this money from GiveDirectly means food security for my family. I am planning to use KES 50,000 from the GiveDirectly transfers to buy more tilling land for improved productivity. I will add two more acres and this will assure my family of six 90kg bags of maize every season. I will use a further KES 20,000 to buy a new bed and mattress for my family so that I can finally enjoy my nights like others. I have been sleeping on sacks for over a decade now and this has made my life miserable. I will use the balance to help in the education of my children. Doing all this will give me peace of mind I have always desired to have.
What is the happiest part of your day?
At my age (63 years), I have faced a lot of challenges ranging from sickness and hunger. However, being alive is the best gift ever from God and waking up in the morning alive and healthy makes me happy.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Food security is the biggest challenge I am facing currently. I only till one acre each season and this has not been able to sustain my family. Sometimes I go the whole day without food and this has affected my health. Seeing my grandchildren crying because they have nothing to eat has also denied me peace for long.
