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.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
Immediately after I stepped out of my bed, my phone rang out loudly. I checked it out and, to my utter surprise, I found out that I had received my first transfer. Wow! My heart melted with joy as I smiled from ear to ear. My face shone with brightness and I knelt down and prayed a short thanksgiving prayer to the Lord, thanking Him for the miracle.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
Fixing the doors to my house is the biggest difference I have had from the transfer. I could not leave my home because of the fear of being robbed and losing my property because my house did not have a door. Since I fixed the door, I now have peace of mind and can now move freely knowing that my property is safe in the house.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
For the past three years, I have put up with the problem of lacking water and walking long distances (45km) to fetch water. The drought that struck our village dried up all the sources of water near my home. This was challenging for me and my children because I lacked water to cook, drink and even wash clothes and utensils. When I received my transfer, I spent KES 26300 on buying a water tank that I will use to store and harvest rainwater. Besides buying the water tank, I spent KES 10000 on buying a metallic door, KES a wooden door, and KES 2500 on buying a window that I used to fix my house. My house was lacking a door and window and this jeopardized my safety and that of my children during the night and my property, too. Finally, I spent the remaining amount buying food for my family so that they would not sleep on empty stomachs.
Enrolled
access_time 2 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
My house isn't in a stable condition, I have been living here for over 10 years.my spouse tried to make renovations but passed on while he had not started.
The house is standing at a sloppy area, and it means when it rains it's at risk of getting washed away. Upon receiving the first transfer of 55,000 KSH I plan to build a firm foundation and add extra 2 rooms at a cost of 40,000 KSH, this will be enough to accommodate me and my grandchildren.
What is the happiest part of your day?
My son started a water business for me, which was one of my biggest dream, and at least I get some few bob which I pay bill and save some for my daily needs especially food for all my grandchildren.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
The biggest challenge right now is to pay school fees for youngest daughter who is in form 4.
Bursary allocated has been of great assistance as it caters for half of the total amount to be paid.
Currently she has an balance of 22,000 KSH which is to be paid before she starts her exam in March.I hope that I will be able to settle it on time to allow her do exams while she is relaxed.
