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.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
GiveDirectly has played a major role in uplifting livelihoods all over as even the less privileged are in a position to enhance their living standards from the transfers they receive monthly.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Being a businessman, GiveDirectly has played a great role in boosting my business as I received KES 3000 which I invested in the charcoal business that I undertake daily by delivering via my bodaboda. It had been a rough time since I wasn't able to receive enough stock for the hustle hence I am very grateful for GiveDirectly.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
1200 KES ($11 USD)
access_time almost 3 years ago
attach_money
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
The moment I received my transfers I felt very happy since I was now relieved that my family will be able to enjoy Christmas celebrations unlike before I was very sadden since I didn't have any money to spend on such an occasion.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The biggest difference in my daily life now is that I am at peace financially. I can relax a little since I am sure of a helping hand hence giving me a bit of a time to spend with my family rather than working all day.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I spent my 1st transfers to buy food for Christmas celebration since I didn't have any money to spend and my children would not have understood.
Enrolled
access_time almost 3 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
My goal is to complete the construction of my house. I was able to build the house with the income from my previous employment as a waiter. I could not complete it since I got a sprain on my leg as I was attending to some clients at work. In time the leg was infected and made it unbearable to work.
My employer had to let me go and since then I have been jobless. I plan to save the transfers for about 6 months, once I have enough cash, I will cement the floor and possibly build pillars to support the house to prevent it from falling especially when it rains.
What is the happiest part of your day?
I appreciate the fact that I am alive and well. It is always a joy to wake up every day with no illness. Things may not be waking as I would want but I remain grateful for everything.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Unemployment is my major challenge, It has been a challenge getting employed since I lack proper skills for the job market, furthermore, I dropped out of school in class four. It has been a year now, I have had to work as a motorcycle rider but only in shifts when my friends are tired or are not having a very successful day.
The project I started of building my own comfortable house has remained stagnant, I cannot settle down and start a family since I do not have a stable source of income.
