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.
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3rd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($295 USD)
access_time 10 months ago
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What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
The recent unconditional cash transfer has brought a significant positive change to my life. I decided to invest a considerable portion, $30, in purchasing a dairy cow. This decision holds twofold benefits for me. Firstly, it means I no longer need to buy expensive milk from the markets, where a liter can cost up to $1.8. Having my own source of milk not only ensures a regular and affordable supply for my family but also opens up the possibility of selling surplus milk, creating an additional income stream. Financial stability has always been a challenge, and this move towards self-sufficiency feels like a step in the right direction. With the remaining funds, I addressed immediate needs. The cold weather has been harsh, so I spent $48 on a new mattress and $14 on two blankets for both myself and the children. Ensuring their comfort during chilly nights is a priority. Additionally, $88 went into securing a stable food supply for the family. Being a casual labouer earning around $3 a day, this financial support has not only eased my daily struggles but has also given me the means to make sustainable choices for the future. It's a reassuring feeling to know that I've invested in both immediate comfort and long-term financial stability for myself and my family..
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
In my opinion, GiveDirectly has truly excelled by providing me with unconditional cash support. The impact on my life has been profound; I now own valuable assets, including cows and a motorcycle. The freedom to decide how to allocate the funds has allowed me to invest in income-generating ventures, significantly improving my financial standing. The acquisition of livestock and a motorbike not only represents tangible wealth but also opens up new opportunities for sustainable income. GiveDirectly's approach of trusting recipients to make decisions based on their unique needs has proven to be effective, empowering me to create a more secure and prosperous future for my family.
How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
My primary aspiration centers around owning a posho mill, recognizing the high demand for this essential service. Understanding the pivotal role a posho mill plays in communities, particularly in providing affordable and accessible maize flour, I see this endeavor as more than a business venture; it's a contribution to the well-being of those around me. With determination as my guide, I plan to navigate the challenges, save diligently, and turn this dream into a reality. By doing so, not only do I hope to establish a sustainable source of income, but I also aim to enhance the lives of others by meeting a fundamental need in our community.
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($306 USD)
access_time 12 months ago
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What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Following the receipt of my second transfer, I made the decision to allocate the funds towards fulfilling a long-standing dream of mine of fencing my land to facilitate tree planting. Fencing it would serve as a means to protect the plants from intrusion and damage by goats. However, this goal had proven to be challenging in the past due to inconsistent income sources. I am married with four children, and my wife sells vegetables while I work as a farmer and also engage in part-time motorcycle taxi business. With the $208, we successfully fenced our land according to our plan. Additionally, we spent $42 on purchasing seats and $78 on buying clothes, while the remaining amount was saved for emergencies. I am grateful for these achievements and feel a deep sense of happiness and fulfillment.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
From my perspective, the aid provided by GiveDirectly has had a deeply meaningful and positive influence on our overall quality of life, bringing about transformative changes and fostering harmony among us. The unconditional nature of the program has empowered us to allocate the funds based on our specific needs without any constraints. I have absolutely no criticisms or reservations regarding any aspect of the program's implementation or its integrity. The support we've received has played a pivotal role in enhancing our situation, and we are profoundly grateful for the positive difference it has made in our lives
How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
I have long nurtured a strong aspiration to set up a posho mill, but unfortunately, financial limitations have hindered the realization of this dream. With my third transfer, I am determined in making this dream a reality. It signifies a golden opportunity for personal growth, despite the initial financial constraints I encountered.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
20000 KES ($142 USD)
access_time 1 year ago
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What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Upon receiving my initial transfer, I made a conscious decision to prioritize my most urgent requirement, which involved fencing my land. I spent $88 on this endeavor. Additionally, I invested $30 in purchasing a comfortable bed to enhance my quality of sleep. Furthermore, I spent $40 to acquire two goats. Subsequently, I utilized $20 to repair a motorbike, and with the remaining funds, I purchased essential food items. In the past, fulfilling these goals posed significant challenges due to the absence of reliable income sources. As a motorcycle taxi rider and part-time farmer, and with a loving family consisting of my spouse and four children, I am immensely grateful for achieving these tasks. The contentment and delight I feel from these accomplishments are truly fulfilling.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The most significant change in my daily life is the realization of my goals within a remarkably short timeframe. Surprisingly, I managed to fence my land, a task I never believed possible due to financial limitations. It feels like a dream transformed into reality. The satisfaction I derive from knowing that I can now cultivate my land without any disruptions from trespassers brings me immense joy. I am genuinely thankful for the assistance that has elevated our living standards.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I can vividly remember the moment it happened. It was precisely 3:10 PM, and I was at home, enjoying a moment of relaxation while keeping an eye on my goats. Suddenly, my phone buzzed, indicating a new Mpesa notification message. To my delight, I discovered that GiveDirectly had sent me some money. The news instantly uplifted my spirits, filling me with joy. Bursting with excitement, I quickly shared the wonderful surprise with my wife, who shared in my happiness. With a newfound enthusiasm, I eagerly started devising plans on how best to make use of the funds.
Enrolled
access_time over 1 year ago
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
I'm faced with challenge of sickness. Since my diagnosis about 15 years ago I have been through so much in my life. However the most pressing challenge I'm facing at the moment is the lack of food. With the lack of food I sometimes fear that my health will be affected which worries me a lot.
What is the happiest part of your day?
My happiness in my daily life comes from waking up in the morning with good health and wellbeing. Despite my sickness, I'm very happy every time I wake up in the morning feeling healthy and energized.
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
I plan to first purchase food with the cash transfers. I plan to buy maize and beans for about $40 of the first transfers. I also plan to buy a goat at $50 and some chicken with the remaining amount. For the second and third transfers I plan to build a better house for me and my family since the house I'm living in at the moment is small. I plan to use about $500 of the transfers to do so. For the remaining transfers I will use it to purchase household furnitures which I will use in my new house. I believe that with this transfers I will be able to change my life positively.