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?
I have actively been part of a merry-go-round with 10 other members, each contributing $10 monthly. This informal yet effective savings plan ensures that every member receives $100 on a rotating monthly basis. Anticipating my turn in April next year, I have strategic plans for the funds. My goal is to invest a significant portion in expanding my agricultural operations. I aim to incorporate an additional 2-acre piece of currently idle land into my farming activities, specifically for planting maize. This expansion is not only geared towards boosting my income but also holds the potential to alleviate the financial burden of secondary school fees for my sons. The merry-go-round has proven to be a valuable financial tool, allowing me to pursue meaningful investments that contribute to both personal and familial prosperity.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
In my perspective, GiveDirectly is performing admirably, significantly improving the living standards of many in our community. Previously, a considerable number of individuals struggled and relied solely on casual labor for sustenance. However, the cash support provided by GiveDirectly has empowered them to make strategic investment choices, effectively elevating their living conditions. The sensitization meetings conducted by GiveDirectly have played a crucial role, fostering responsible spending habits and leading to a notable reduction in misuse of funds. I am hopeful that the same effective approach will be applied in other villages, ensuring a positive impact on their communities as well.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Receiving the first transfer came at a crucial time when I had a significant debt for my children's school fees. With competing financial priorities, I deferred settling the fees but was relieved to clear the $120 arrears, $31 for the three pre-school children, and invested $28 in school uniforms with the second transfer. This ensured my children could complete the term without disruption. Additionally, I acquired 5 iron sheets for $66, intending to construct a new house for my two sons who had been sharing space with neighbors, hindering their study environment. I also bought a bed worth $38 for the extra room to provide a comfortable space for visitors. Allocating the remaining funds, I spent $70 on foodstuff, invested $22 in a 100-liter water tank, and dedicated $2 to toiletries. I incurred a $17 transport cost from the shopping center to my home, wisely saving the remaining amount for potential household emergencies. The support from GiveDirectly has not only relieved immediate financial burdens but also contributed to the well-being and education of my family.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
18010 KES ($126 USD)
access_time 4 months ago
attach_money
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
While I was by the stream, taking a moment to refresh myself, I suddenly heard my phone vibrate with a message notification. Although I typically don't check my texts regularly, I had developed a habit of being attentive to my phone due to expecting some cash transfers. Curious, I paused to read the message and was delighted to discover that GiveDirectly had sent me some money. The rush of happiness was overwhelming, and I couldn't contain my joy. As soon as my husband returned home, I eagerly shared the news with him, and he too was filled with excitement. Without delay, we began discussing and planning how to make the most of this unexpected blessing.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The biggest difference in my daily life is the peace of mind I have since a heavy burden was lifted from my shoulders. Thanks to the financial aid I received, I was able to promptly pay off a long-standing debt that had been weighing on me. Moreover, our household now has an abundant supply of food, in stark contrast to before when we struggled to make ends meet. I am extremely grateful for the support that has amazingly transformed my life.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
After receiving the transfer, I carefully considered how to spent the funds, and the most urgent need was to pay off my son's school fees arrears, which amounted to $54. This had been a difficult task previously, given our financial constraints, as I rely on selling vegetables at a retail shop while my husband does casual jobs to make a living. With five children to support, every expense requires careful planning. Once I had taken care of the school fees, I used $70 to clear a long-pending debt that had been hanging over our heads. Finally, with the remaining funds, I decided to invest in securing our basic needs. I purchased a sack of maize, along with other essential food items and clothing for the family. The best part is that I now have the opportunity to save some money for my children's future school fees. This financial support has brought immense relief and gratitude to our family.
Enrolled
access_time 6 months ago
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
We have been pondering where to get school fees to pay this term's fees amounting to $ 200 we were able to pay a paltry $ 50. It has given stress and uncertainty. We have been between a rock and a hard surface with nowhere to turn to. Nothing beats the joy we got when we receive the good news about GiveDirectly's transfers. It was the sweetest message we have ever heard. It came at a perfect time and we are now certain that our son's fees will be paid. We intend to use $ 550 towards clearing pending arrears and paying next term fees as we look for means to raise money for next year's fees, at least we will have the whole year undisturbed. We will us the rest of the money to purchase foodstuff.
What is the happiest part of your day?
In March we started receiving long rains after unprecedented dry season and sweltering heat that had ravaged vegetations and bring out untold sufferings in terms of food insecurity. Our goats were not spared either, due to scarce pastures they became so emaciated. The onset of long rains led to sprouting of new green vegetation and the goats are now doing good and we were able to plant some crops. It was indeed a blessing and it gave us joy and hope of a brighter future.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
We are blessed with 5 children, our first born son, Theophilas, recently joined Form one in Tenges Secondary School. Raising school fees for his studies has been a tall order. We are people of little means who do not have any meaningful income generating activities. We sold almost half of the goats we had to be able to pay his school fees, at this rate we will deplete the resources and mark you we have other needs such as food. We are afraid we might not be able to see him through his secondary education. We are way inadequate and it worries us a great deal. We want the best for our son to excel in his studies and God willing get a job in future to assist us and his siblings to come out of misery we are in.
