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 ($521 USD)
access_time over 4 years ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
The biggest difference is that I have been able to raise my daily revenue through the new business, a motorcycle taxi that I invested in with the second transfers I received. This has enabled me to take care of the my family's expenses and other personal needs. I am so grateful because, without GD, I sincerely would have been in debt and probably depressed thinking of all the burden and responsibilities on my shoulders.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
We have heard very many organizations come with several promises to help elevate poverty in our region but majority of them were scum. They had selfish hidden desires in the name of helping and most times it was all in vain. GD had kept their work and fulfilled as they promised and this is a dream come true. This was well executed and there is no record of wrong seen during the entire process but blessings galore.
What did you spend your second transfer on?
When I received transfers from GD, I bought a motorcycle for the taxi business that I have dreamt of starting. This will help generate income for my household and I will be able to take care of my family with less burden as before when I had to work two casual jobs to comfortably provide for my family.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($545 USD)
access_time almost 5 years ago
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Describe the biggest difference in your daily life.
The biggest difference in my daily life is the acquisition of a new house. I feel at peace having a secure shelter. Previously, I lived in an old house that had rotten timber that served as the pillar of the house. This made me worry about my family's safety because I knew that a day would come when the house could collapse. I thank GiveDirectly for giving my family a chance of improving our living standards.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
My husband was the one who informed me that money had been sent money which I confirmed immediately through the message that had been sent. I felt very happy since I knew most of my struggles that were related to money would be solved.
What did you spend your first transfer on?
I spent my first transfer to buy building materials such as 20 iron sheets , timbers and build a new house with its small kitchen . The previous house was in the verge of collapsing due to rotten timbers which had weaken the super -structure therefore I am glad for the change I have now . I bought a mattress and a bed. I bought food with the remaining amount .
Enrolled
access_time almost 5 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
I underwent a caesarian section in 2016 after my second pregnancy developed problems. This condition forced me to close down my shop because I used all the finances to cover the medical bill. Since then I depend on my husband for a living. It has been my greatest desire to reopen this business in order to earn extra income for my family. I will therefore use part of this transfer to achieve my dream. Besides, I will start a goat rearing project. This will help me educate my children because I have plans to give them a bright future.
What is the happiest part of your day?
The happiest part of my day is in the evening after a long day of tiresome duties. I spend the entire day farming and also taking care of the kids. I always long for evening when I can rest my body, soul and mind.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
My husband has been a motorcycle operator for over 6 years. On a good day he could earn up to 1000 shillings and this amount sustained us comfortably. All went well until August this year when the owner decided to sell the motorbike. Currently he depends on people's motorbikes to ferry customers. His earnings have reduced to 200 shillings thus making it difficult to provide for us. I consider this to be the biggest hardship since it has negatively impacted our well being.
