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.
How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
In the forthcoming years, my upcoming venture entails fencing my entire land to establish an ideal area for cultivating vegetables, shielding them from potential harm caused by goats. Financial limitations previously impeded the initiation of such projects, as the earnings from my herding job fell short. Yet, with the assistance of my third transfer, I am determined to translate this aspiration into a concrete reality. Appreciative of the substantial progress already attained, I eagerly anticipate the positive transformation this initiative will usher in.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
Ever since GiveDirectly began operating in our region, my life has experienced significant empowerment, providing me with newfound financial freedom. The unconditional nature of the transfers has granted me the opportunity to acquire things I once considered beyond reach due to financial constraints. Up to now, I haven't identified any aspects of their operations that require correction; I am content with how they conduct their work.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
The longstanding dream of renovating my house, driven by the desire to expand and accommodate guests, seemed distant due to the financial challenges posed by my job as a herder earning a meager $30 per month. Despite being single, I faced constraints in meeting basic needs. However, with the arrival of my second transfer, I strategically allocated funds, dedicating $220 to purchase building materials like iron sheets, frames, and nails. Additionally, I spent $40 on clothes, $26 on barbed wire, acquired half a sack of maize for $20, and prudently saved $150. This substantial financial support from GiveDirectly fills me with immense joy, paving the way for the realization of my dream to renovate my house.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
20000 KES ($137 USD)
access_time 1 year ago
attach_money
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I felt so happy the moment I received money from GiveDirectly. It was around 3:29 and I was expecting to receive the money and so this did not come as a surprise as such. I had always wanted to make some investments like building my own house, keeping my own goats and food that would last me some couple of weeks if not days. I used to rely on income from charcoal selling which would require a lot of time and energy and especially because I am a person living with disability.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The biggest difference in my life ever since I started receiving a transfer from GiveDirectly is the peace of mind that I now have Having bought the goats that I bought and having bought the pieces of iron sheets as well makes me very happy and content. I have had struggles withy disability nature yet I still had to do odd casual jobs to make ends meet.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I bought three goats worth $150 and the remaining amount of $50 was used to purchase pieces of iron sheets that I am yet to use to construct my own house. Once my new house is complete then I intend to use my current house as a store . I look forward to receiving the second transfer which I will use to build my own house to its completion. GiveDirectly came in handy for me and my family and I look forward to changing my life and that of my family with it. I have never been into charcoal making and selling business ever since I received the money and what this means is that I have had time to relax and take care of my goats investment.
Enrolled
access_time over 1 year ago
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
Receiving the transfers from GiveDirectly means so much to me because I believe it will change my life positively. Since I have a food challenge currently I intend to use the first transfers to purchase maize, beans, and other household goods such as cooking oil and sugar. This is significant because it will ensure that I have enough food to last me a few months. Additionally, I plan to purchase 20 iron sheets at about $9 each. Together with the fundi and other products, I intend to use the second transfer to improve my house into a one-bedroom house. This will cost me about $300. In addition to this, I plan to purchase a few goats at $150 of the transfers. Whatever remains I intend to save so that I can use sparingly to purchase food and other household products.
What is the happiest part of your day?
My happiness daily comes from my well-being. Despite the disability and my inability to work properly, I'm always happy that I'm healthy and I can take care of my livestock.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
At the moment the aspect that is making my life harder is my disability. I was born with a leg problem that does not allow me to walk properly. This has created a big challenge for me because I'm unable to do normal activities such as working on the farm. Because of this, I depend on the sale of my few goats to purchase food. At the moment I lack food and I have to sleep hungry. This makes life very difficult for me.
