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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.
Stages:
 
Enrollment
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Transfers
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Completed
Newsfeed > Safari's Profile
Safari's family
Safari
landscapeCountry:
kenya
workOccupation:
Subsistence farming
faceAge:
25
workCampaign
Standard Kenya
There will be no further updates from this completed recipient.
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
53150 KES ($525 USD)
access_time almost 5 years ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
My life is different than it would have been if I would never receive the transfer in that, I could have never bought a motorcycle. This means that I would forever depend on business which had its ups and downs and the main issue was it state since it was almost collapsing. I am glad that Give Directly gave me the means to change my life by enabling me to purchase a motorcycle. I have started using it in ferrying people around and I can say that it is more profitable than the business that I used to do. I am happy that I am able to save even after paying school fees and meeting our daily needs such as buying food
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
In my opinion, the idea of sending money directly through our personal lines is the best idea ever. To add on that the money is unconditional. This has avoided fraudulent cases by the third parties. People have really managed to meet their goal since they remain with a good amount of money after all deductions have been made.
What did you spend your second transfer on?
I spent a larger portion of my transfer on purchasing a second-hand motorcycle. I also spared some which I used on buying spare parts for the motorcycle to replace the worn out parts. I felt this was the best idea since the business I was doing previously was almost collapsing. I believe the motorcycle business could be profitable because people have to move from one place to another on a daily basis. I am glad that I get more money than I used to in my previous business. Today, I am able to save a few coins and still afford to feed my family and pay their school fees comfortably.
 
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($546 USD)
access_time 5 years ago
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Describe the biggest difference in your daily life.
I thank GiveDirectly for their financial assistance because through this help my living standard has greatly improved. Previously I was living in a small house that could not accommodate my family. Through the transfer, I managed to add a few rooms. Everyone in my family is now comfortable. The comfort that came with the expansion of this house is my biggest difference.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I saw the notification early in the morning as I was checking the messages in my inbox. It was indicating that my first transfer had finally been sent to my account. I was very happy. I knew my life would change because what I really needed in order to improve my standards of living was available. My long time dream of expanding my house was now achievable through the transfers that had been sent.
What did you spend your first transfer on?
I spent part of my first transfer on buying two goats. I decided to invest on the goats because they do well in our village. Their feeds are locally available and the climate condition for this region is also conducive for these animals. I believe that with time, they will reproduce and increase in number and help me meet my financial needs in future. Apart from that, I also spent the transfer to buy building materials. I bought iron sheets, timber and building poles for the expansion of my single room house. The transfers enabled me to build two more rooms. I can now comfortably provide shelter for my family. In addition to these, I also purchased and fixed a metallic door to replace the old wooden door. I thank Give Directly for enabling me attain these goals.
 
Enrolled
access_time over 5 years ago
 
What does receiving this money mean to you?
Most of us here depend on subsistence farming and livestock rearing.As a member of this community,I have always yearned for having my own oxen so that I can upscale farming and also as a measure of wealth.Receiving money from Givedirectly means I will be able to buy oxen and goats which will enhance improved farming and food security.This will act as a measure of wealth as well thus earning respect and dignity from members of my community.
What is the happiest part of your day?
On a normal day,I set out at 7:00am to take the cows for grazing until 11:00am when my father takes over.I then proceed to the farm upto 4:00pm to do cultivation before cycling to the pond to fetch water.By 6:00pm,I take a rest and listen to music as I cool off from the scorching effects of the sun.Therefore the happiest part of my day is usually in the evening not only because of the music and relaxation,but I also get updates on current affairs from the radio.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
The biggest hardship I have faced is food insecurity.Three years ago we experienced drought that killed all our livestock,all the water pans ran dry and all crops dried up.Because we did not have any cereals in the stores,we could not help but starve.There was no economic activity to engage in so as to get money for food which prices were exorbitant then.