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?
It was in the afternoon, and I was just relaxing at home. My daughter, Jessica, who stays with me after separating from her husband some time ago, had the phone. I was lounging in my favorite wooden chair, lost in thought when Jessica burst into the room with a beaming smile. She happily announced that the money we had been expecting had been deposited into my account.
As the news sank in, a wave of happiness washed over me. It was a huge amount of money, and I couldn't believe it was finally here. My mind immediately turned to my house, which has been old and in poor condition for a while now. The first thing I thought of was building a new, comfortable home for us. This money meant a fresh start and a secure future, and I felt a deep sense of gratitude and hope for what lay ahead.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
Since receiving the transfers from GiveDirectly, my life has started taking a different form of transformation. I will no longer confined to a cramped house that doubles as a store; instead, I'm about to move into a spacious new home. This newfound space means I can separate my living quarters from my work area, giving me a sense of peace and organization that I never had before. It's incredible to have room to breathe, to create, and to relax without constantly bumping into my properties or worrying about where to put everything. This transformation has brought an overwhelming sense of relief and joy in a way that was previously impossible.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I am a widow, relying on my son who works in town for support. When I received the money, the first thing I did was buy 20 iron sheets for $240. These sheets will be crucial for the new roof of the house I am planning to build. I also spent $100 on building poles, which are essential for creating a sturdy structure. These purchases were the first steps in my plan to construct a more spacious home.
The remaining money is set aside for other building materials that I still need to buy. My current house is small and cramped, especially since I live with my three grandchildren. It's my priority to build a larger, more comfortable home for all of us. This new house will not only provide us with more space but also a safer and more comfortable living environment.
Enrolled
access_time 5 months ago
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
Changing the nature of our living is what I have wanted for a long time. Imagine sharing a room with my daughter and 3 grandchild yet it's not spacious enough to accommodate us. This has pushed me to desire constructing a decent and spacious house for both of us. To ensure this come to reality, I intend to spend $500 of the money to solve this menace. This will guarantee us a better house to boost our self-esteem as well as maintaining our dignity. On the other, I will also invest in livestock moreso goats which multiply fast. To start with, I will use $200 to buy 5 goats to act as my long-term investment project. The remaining amount will help me to buy new beddings and also to support my grandchildren's education. Thus, this is what receiving this money means to me.
What is the happiest part of your day?
The happiness of a parent is to see your family safe and in good health. As a mother, I am so grateful to God for having saved my son who had appendix problem. He successfully underwent a surgery and he is currently in good state. This month, we conducted a party to thank God for his mercies. Thus, I consider this as what has brought me joy.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Life at home has become so tough due to financial constraints. This has made us live a miserable life that has lowered our social status. Looking at our house, it is very small and it can not accommodate us. In addition, getting our meals also has a challenge and sometimes, me might be forced to survive on two or one in a day. For this reason, I usually feel stressed and it is because of this challenge that makes my life harder.
