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.
How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
Looking ahead to the upcoming year, my main objective revolves around acquiring cows, goats, and hens. I intend to achieve this goal by setting aside my third transfer. The considerable financial support we've been fortunate to receive has cultivated a strong sense of gratitude within us, affording us a fresh sense of financial independence and revealing a realm of promising prospects.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
The influence of GiveDirectly on our lives has been deep and transformative, offering vital financial aid. The enrollment process was transparent, and the unrestricted cash was delivered to all of us as assured. Up to this point, I have not noticed any operational shortcomings within the organization, and we are genuinely appreciative of the beneficial effect it has had on our lives.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Receiving my second transfer from GiveDirectly prompted me to allocate the funds towards procuring building materials for the construction of a decent house. This decision stemmed from the fact that my current dwelling was in a deteriorated state, being composed of grass and mud. Financial constraints had previously prevented me from building a more suitable home. As a farmer, married, and blessed with three children, I understood the significance of enhancing our living conditions. Consequently, I used $350 towards the construction of iron sheets house, signifying a significant investment in this endeavor. I also set aside $10 for farming purposes. The support provided by GiveDirectly has profoundly impacted my life, exceeding even my highest expectations. The chance to invest in a new home has brought immense relief, and I am genuinely appreciative of the assistance received and the transformative change it has brought to my life.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
18010 KES ($129 USD)
access_time 10 months ago
attach_money
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
As usual, I was performing some manual labor on the farm when my phone notified me of a message. And when I looked, I saw that it was the transfer from Givedirectly that we had anticipated. I was thrilled and knew right away that things will improve in my life!
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
My daily life is generally better now. Even though I still haven't finished construction on my new home, I was still able to accomplish more with the money I had that was intended for planting instead, which I did with the transfer I received. I'll be able to finish the house and purchase more goats with the money I'll receive in the next transfer as I prepare to establish a family. I continue to be unmarried.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
The villagers typically leave their goats to wander around in search of herbs and leaves and occasionally may enter farms because there isn't enough pasture in our location due to the drought and the local climate. So I made the decision to hire workers to build a fence around the farm I planned to cultivate. I invested about $50 in doing this. Additionally, I paid people to assist me in preparing the area where I eventually planted some millet seed. The whole cost of the exercise, including what I paid for millet seeds, was about $100. Compared to maize, millet is more drought-resistant, therefore we anticipate that they will fare well despite the unpredictable weather.
Enrolled
access_time 1 year ago
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
Since I live in a makeshift house, I plan to complete my 2-roomed house. It's my priority. I will spend $200. This means when my daughters visit they'll have a good place to call home.
Goats have supported me for long. I need to upgrade the breed I have now. To do this I will buy an additional 15 goats, to the 20 I have. It will cost me $700. When they grow, I can sell them and support my children's education an other needs such as food and clothes. It also means I won't have to worry too much on where to get money.
The remaining transfer will be used for daily support. That's to buy food, buy medicine for my goats when they're sick and other emergencies. The transfer will help me buy food for at least 3 months.
What is the happiest part of your day?
My biggest joy is the 20 goats that I have. When I need some money, I sell the for income. It makes me happy having goats.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
I currently live in a makeshift house. Started building a 2-roomed house 2 years ago. During rainy seasons it's difficult sleeping for me. I live in a hut and the goats sleep nearby. It's really difficult for me when my two daughters visit. As they visit, I ask neighbors to host them which stresses me a lot. This has affected my ability to stay with my daughters since I separated with my wife.
