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.
My life is now different because the transfer has enabled me to accomplish many things. First, I rear goats in my homestead with a modern shed that allows me to effectively take care of them. When I received the transfer, I purchased materials that allowed me to construct a good modern shed for them. Secondly, the transfer has enabled me to clear school fee arrears for my child in the university, for him to continue comfortably with his studies. Lastly, I also managed to renovate my toilet which was mudded by plastering it with cement.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I saw the message notification early in the morning. On checking to confirm who the sender was, I realized that it was from GiveDirectly informing me that I had finally received money from them. I felt very happy because for sure I never expected that I would receive such an amount in my life. I knew that I would be able to use the money to change my life and fulfil with ease the things which seemed to be impossible before.
What did you spend your first transfer on?
I spent KES 20000 from my transfer to pay for my sons' college fees. He is in the final year and seeing him complete his studies is my greatest happiness. I also bought a mattress at KES 4500 to change my old beddings. Also, I bought some building materials to construct an improved and modern shed for my livestock where I can comfortably take care of them and feed them. I also bought some materials such as cement and sand for the renovation of my toilet which was nearly collapsing due to cracks on the walls. I am happy that it is now usable and I no longer worry about it.
Enrolled
access_time almost 5 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
It was very unfortunate that my husband and I did not carefully plan for our retirement and this has led to so much frustration. With no work to do and no source of income, I almost fell into depression until GiveDirectly knocked on our door and things changed. I plan to use my transfers to buy an indigenous breed of goats and build a shelter for them to prevent them from being affected by the cold. I also plan to pay fees for my daughter who is yet to complete her degree in Human resource management.
What is the happiest part of your day?
The worst part of my day is in the night when my mind is troubled with so much thought about our situation. However, during the day am happy because I get to interact with neighbors and friends and this helps me to keep thoughts at bay.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
My biggest worry right now is lack of finances to ensure my children complete their education and that am able to meet other needs such as food. Having retired last year with no tentative plan of survival post employment, things have become so difficult. Also the transition from being employed to staying at home full time with no income has really taken a toll on me. I am glad though that this cash transfer has provided a way out of my misery and returned my sanity.
