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 biggest difference in your daily life.
I had began an investment in town from which I am selling and supplying charcoal, which has been my only source of income. However, before the coming of GiveDirectly, it was not doing well at all, I was earning a little income. Thus when I received my first transfer, I invested KES 30000 by purchasing enough stock, and now it's thriving well. I am looking forward to see my income increasing daily, which makes it to be the biggest difference in my daily life.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I was filled with happiness the moment I saw the transfer notification in my phone. Indeed it was from GiveDirectly and they had finally honored their promise to us. I thanked God and GiveDirectly for the fortune.
What did you spend your first transfer on?
I spent KES 25000 of the first transfer to purchase a cow. Having a cow to me is a big achievement because I couldn't buy any on my own. I am happy that I will be benefiting from the milk that this cow will be producing. I can even sell the surplus to get an income. I also invested KES 30000 into a business of selling and supplying charcoal in town. This is a business that promise a good income, thus I am expecting that soon I will be earning a good profit from it. I spent the remaining amount to buy some foodstuffs for my family as well as paying for other household items.
Enrolled
access_time over 5 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
Receiving this money means restoring my health. A month ago, I was diagnosed with tuberculosis and has to been on medication for 6 months. The money from Give Directly will help me purchase the medicine required which is a bit expensive while the rest will be invested in livestock for future financial requirements such as food and education for my grandchildren.
What is the happiest part of your day?
The happiest part of my day is in the afternoon when I spend time with my grandchildren, telling them stories and laughing. It drives away many thoughts in my head.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
My biggest hardship is lack of finances. After being diagnosed with tuberculosis, the doctor advised that I do not engage in any strenuous activity. I therefore cannot work and has to be provided for by my two sons who do casual work in Mombasa. With their own families to support, they cannot meet all my needs, for example the medication required for my condition because it is quite expensive. So far they have only been able to buy medicine to last a month yet the prescription was for 6 months.
