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.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I recently broke my leg and find it hard to indulge in strenuous activities due to severe pains. Since my income sources are limited by this factor, am forced to heavily count on Give Directly money for livelihood. We are intensely struck by drought which makes us either walk two hours to fetch water or pay a motorcyclist to deliver the same within 30 minutes. So from the transfers, I spent KES 360 to secure and transport water from the pond to my home. Additionally, I used KES 1000 to buy food and KES 700 to buy two chickens for rearing. I also used KES 800 to pay off debts at a kiosk.
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
3050 KES ($27 USD)
access_time over 2 years ago
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In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
In my own opinion, I think Give Directly should increase the transfer amount. It is hard for somebody to plan accordingly with such an amount. It is easier to plan and execute your plans once the transfer amount is huge. Every other thing from Give Directly is good.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I have for the longest time been suffering from severe chest problems. The situation has never been different since I was a kid. I have visited many hospitals but have never found a permanent solution to my problem. With the health problem I have. I cannot engage myself in very strenuous jobs. This is a big disadvantage for me in terms of finding a good job that will help me in looking after myself. With the tough economic conditions we are currently in and the drought situation on top of it, it is becoming even unbearable. When I received the transfer I use a portion of it in getting medication from the hospital. I also spent the rest of the transfer in buying food and also buying water for my own use.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
1200 KES ($11 USD)
access_time over 2 years ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
It was about 10 am in morning. I was lying on my bed. I had already woken up and I had my phone ringing, upon checking out I found out that the cash I had received was from GiveDirectly. I was happy because I knew that the funds would greatly help me since I had already missed doctors appointed due to lack of transport and also medication fees.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The biggest difference in my daily life is that I am happy and thankful that I will be able to recover quickly with the help of funds. When I am back on my feet I will be able to take care of myself and stop being a burden to my relatives and others. I am thankful for the help.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I spent my money on self-medication and check-ups. I was involved in an accident and the accident left me bedridden and I have no way to look after myself and also go out and get money to attend to myself. With the money I received from GiveDirectly a total of KSH 1200 helped me a lot in ensuring that I got the perfect medication that will help me on the road to recovery.
Enrolled
access_time over 2 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
Ever since I was in standard two I used to help my elder brother run his retail shop. This exposure caused me to develop a passion for business. I even started my small shop after dropping out of school but due to limited capital, I didn't make it that far. Nevertheless, the dream still lives in me and I was hoping that someday it would come true. I am so excited to be included in GiveDirectly's program because courtesy of this money my desire will be achieved.
What is the happiest part of your day?
Cold weather is not favorable to me as it worsens the pain in my leg. I enjoy afternoons when the sun is scorching because the warmth soothes my pain.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
A fatal accident that I got involved in, left me for dead. Although I made it out of the ICU, my badly fractured leg took eight months to get better. It's been three years now but I cannot engage in any labor-intensive activity to make a living. I can say I am almost a beggar because I rely on my brothers for all my needs. They provide for their families too hence cannot support me fully.
