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 ($527 USD)
access_time 5 years ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
Before I began to receive my transfers, I was living in a small and leaky house which I always felt uncomfortable to stay in during rainy seasons. However, when I received my transfers, I was able to buy a piece of land and iron sheets which I used to build a new spacious house. The house that I currently live in is better and more comfortable than the one I had at first. As a matter of facts, it can accommodate all my family members comfortably. GiveDirectly has indeed impacted my life positively.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
In my opinion, GiveDirectly does well in supporting the less fortunate in society. Majority of the recipients who were enrolled in the program have used their transfers well and have therefore made positive steps in life. However, I have never seen what GiveDirectly does not do well.
What did you spend your second transfer on?
When I received my second transfers, I prioritized spending it on buying iron sheets and timbers which I used to build a new spacious two bedroomed house. I previously had a small leaky house. I also spent the rest to buy sofa sets because I was just using an old and weak chair which I was afraid to give to a visitor because it could break anytime. Currently, my house is well transformed and I feel better whenever I stay indoors.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($540 USD)
access_time over 5 years ago
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Describe the biggest difference in your daily life.
Since I received the money I have been so peaceful, proud, and independent. This is because I bought a piece of land where I have constructed home. It's so peaceful staying in my compound and I feel independent because I'm in control of everything in the home. This is the biggest difference in my daily life.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
It was in the morning when I was washing clothes when I heard my phone ring. I immediately went to check the phone and to my surprise, I had received money from GiveDirectly. I was filled with happiness. I knelt and prayed to thank God for the gift.
What did you spend your first transfer on?
It has always been my prayer to get a piece of land where I could construct a home because I was uncomfortable staying in my parent's in-law home which restricted me in developing myself since there wasn't enough space. At the same time, there were constant conflicts with the other in-laws since we were many in the same compound. The moment when I received the money I bought a piece of land where we have already constructed home.
Enrolled
access_time over 5 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
I have been desiring to expand and make my business self sustaining. Receiving this money will, therefore, give me an opportunity to reinvest in my business. I shall spend the money to build a chips stall where I shall be selling chips and other food stuffs in a relatively larger scale.
What is the happiest part of your day?
The happiest part of my is in the afternoon after I have spent some quality time during the mid morning hours to read my bible. I am always encouraged by the bible verses which instill hope in him. This factor derives happiness and joy in my heart.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
The biggest hardship I face is living in a bad conditioned house. Since we live in a plain area, we are often adversely affected by the floods which makes our house extremely inhabitable. This condition has often led to massive destruction of our property hence subjecting us to constant suffering.
