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.
There will be no further updates from this completed recipient.
3rd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($324 USD)
access_time 9 months ago
check
How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
In the years ahead, my focus will be on maximizing the productivity of my acre of land, now that my crops are safeguarded by the newly erected chain-link fence. This development has ignited a renewed sense of motivation within me to put forth even more effort. As my sole source of income, I am determined to leverage my farming endeavors to provide for the education of my four children. I plan to specialize in butternut and tomato farming, optimizing the land's potential, ensuring timely planting, and availing of the required farm input to generate a higher income.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
GD has truly made a remarkable impact by providing us with a substantial amount of cash. This transfer has brought about significant positive changes in our lives and has been instrumental in driving transformation within our community, evident in improved housing structures, economic development, and educational opportunities. I am grateful for the transfer, as it enabled me to pay for my children's school fees, ensuring their uninterrupted education. Additionally, I am delighted about the fence I installed, which will enhance the productivity of my farming activities and ultimately generate income. I am sincerely thankful.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Goats intruding, destroying, and reducing crop production have been a frequent challenge in my agricultural endeavors on my one-acre of land. It has been a constant source of worry for me, and I have tried temporary solutions like cutting shrubs to fence the land, but they require frequent replacement, and the process is tedious. When I received the latest transfer, I saw an opportunity for a long-term solution. I used $300 to install a chain-link fence around the land. I am now happy that I can farm without the constant fear of my crops being destroyed. Furthermore, I used the remaining $150 to purchase a cupboard for storing my utensils and household items. For a long time, I have struggled with broken utensils due to poor storage, as I used to keep them in a box on the floor, and my food supplies have been at risk of being eaten by rats. With the cupboard, I finally have a secure storage solution, giving me peace of mind about the safety of my belongings
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($279 USD)
access_time 10 months ago
attach_money
How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
In the coming years, my primary goal is to prioritize the education of all my children, ensuring that each one completes their schooling. I am committed to providing them with the necessary support and resources to thrive academically. I plan to expand my farming operations by renting an additional half-acre of land. This strategic decision is to up my current tomato cultivation, which has been half an acre. By doing so, I anticipate a significant boost in production, contributing to the overall success and sustainability of my farming. This dual focus on education and agricultural expansion reflects my dedication to the present and future well-being of my family. Through careful planning and hard work, I aspire to create a harmonious balance between nurturing my children's academic growth and advancing my agricultural endeavors for increased productivity.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
What truly resonated with me about GiveDirectly's approach was their support. It directly impacted various aspects of my life. It facilitated payment of school fees for my children, provided food for my family, and significantly supported my farming endeavors. One of the most remarkable aspects of GiveDirectly's program is its inclusiveness. Unlike other NGOs, where aid might not reach everyone, GiveDirectly ensures that every household receives support. This comprehensive approach is both fair and empowering. Another element that sets GiveDirectly apart is the unconditional nature of their cash transfers. The flexibility to use the funds based on our specific needs is incredibly valuable. This aspect of their program allowed me to address the most pressing needs of my family efficiently and effectively. I sincerely hope that GiveDirectly continues with this exemplary model of support. Their efforts in assisting the impoverished have the power to bring about transformative changes. By continuing to provide unconditional financial aid, they can uplift many more individuals and families, fostering a cycle of positive change and development in communities.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Receiving support from GiveDirectly was a true blessing for our family at a crucial time. I invested $160 in paying workers who trellised my tomatoes, keeping them off the ground. I had no other means to fund this essential task. Additionally, I allocated $100 toward purchasing top-dressing fertilizer for my tomatoes to accelerate their maturity and enhance quality. I dedicated $150 to my three secondary school children's education. By contributing $50 towards each child's fees, I was able to lessen our financial burden and ensure their continued schooling. With the festive season, I also set aside $20 for Christmas clothes for my three younger children. This decision was made with a heavy heart, as I had to exclude the older ones, hoping they would understand our family's financial situation. I spent another $20 on food to celebrate Christmas Day, a time for family togetherness and joy. As a farmer, and with my husband's contribution through his business endeavors, we strive tirelessly to support our family. The assistance from GiveDirectly provided immediate relief and injected hope and stability into our lives, for which we are immensely grateful.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
20000 KES ($132 USD)
access_time 1 year ago
attach_money
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
The memory of receiving my transfer from GiveDirectly remains vivid in my mind. I was out in the fields, working diligently under the scorching sun when suddenly my phone buzzed with a message. Initially, I thought it was just a routine text from my service provider, but on second thought, I decided to check its contents. To my surprise, it was a text message from Segovia Technology, indicating that I had received money. An overwhelming sense of joy washed over me as I realized that I now had the means to pursue my dreams. Excitement filled me, and I immediately called my husband, who shared in my happiness. From that moment, we began discussing the most effective strategies for using the funds.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
This support has been instrumental in enabling me to obtain a sack of maize, a valuable resource that now guarantees a steady and plentiful food supply for my household, in stark contrast to the past when we lived hand-to-mouth. This marks a significant departure from the hardships we once endured, where we constantly struggled to make ends meet due to unreliable sources of income. Furthermore, I am now confident that my children can study comfortably in school because I have cleared their fee arrears. I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the assistance we have received, as it has greatly improved our overall quality of life.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Upon receiving our first transfer, my husband and I collectively decided how to allocate our funds. We recognized the importance of investing $86 in farming, particularly for planting beans. Farming plays a crucial role in sustaining our livelihood, and my husband is also involved in the animal trade business. Our family comprises seven children. In addition to our agricultural endeavors, we spent $84 for essential food supplies and $10 for the purchase of two plastic chairs. Finally, we used $20 to provide college upkeep money for my son. We will forever be grateful to the organization for significantly improving our quality of life, as these opportunities were previously out of reach due to our limited income from farming. I feel a sense of relief and happiness as a result.
Enrolled
access_time 1 year ago
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
I desire good education for my three children in secondary school and another in University. Being able to raise their school fees has been difficult due to unpredictable income from the farm. I will use the transfers to pay for a terms fees which will cost $ 600. I am very happy because the transfers will allow me to concentrate on other things knowing that the education of my children is catered for.
What is the happiest part of your day?
I did watermelon farming in an acre piece of land and harvested in may. I got $ 700 as profit and this brought me happiness because I was able to pay school fees for my children. It gives me peace of mind knowing that they will study comfortably for a whole year.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Financial constraints is the biggest challenge due to unstable income. I am a farmer, and due to the inconsistent rain patterns it has not been productive hence a decrease in income. My husband gives me a helping hand by doing casual jobs but it is still not enough to cater to our basic needs.