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?
I felt so happy because I knew finally my dream of owning a house will come true.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The biggest difference in my life right now is that I have a place to lay my head comfortably. Previously, I used to sleep in my kitchen and it was not conducive because of all the smoke I would inhale. Consequently, my health has also improved.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I spent the money on construction of a house because I did not have any before. I bought poles, iron sheets and nails as well as paying for labor charges.
Enrolled
access_time 4 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
Receiving this money means a better shelter for my family. The motive behind this desire is the fact that I live in a single roomed that is also damaged. It is this very small structure that serves as bedroom and kitchen. Due to its size, it is very uncomfortable to live in since it gets extremely hot and smokey especially after cooking. I tried to build a better one last year but I stopped halfway due to lack of money. This made it collapse and I have to start afresh.
What is the happiest part of your day?
The happiest part of my day is in the evening when I am resting after my daily duties. This is the time I also get to sit with my family as we take supper. Their presence is very important and helps me to relax.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
The right to decent living is an entitlement to every human being but this is not my case. My life is full of struggles and I cannot meet my family needs. This is what has caused us to lack even a good shelter. Besides, I have not been able to educate my children and always rely on well wishers. One of my sons completed his secondary education in 2015 but since then I have not been able to enroll him in college. All this is happening due to my low financial status which is caused by lack of a stable source of income.
