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.
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2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
53075 KES ($523 USD)
access_time almost 5 years ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
We recently had a conflict with my neighbor about the land boundary. He used to complain that I had extended the limits of my farms boundary. It was a very serious issue that could have led to serious repercussions but I'm happy I was able to hire a land surveyor who surveyed the land and was able to show us our boundaries. I even afforded to put permanent land marks to avoid the issue coming up again. We are currently at peace because everyone knows their boundaries.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
In my opinion, Give Directly does well by not forcing the aid on recipients, instead, they allowed the recipients to choose whether they would be enrolled in the program or not. This was a good step since it has reduced the suspicion people had about the money. At the same time, it didn't bring conflict among couples especially the ones who were skeptical which the organization. Their mode of operation has left the village more united and developed than before.
What did you spend your second transfer on?
Previously I didn't have a reliable source of income. I used to rely on casual work in order to meet my daily needs. The casual jobs were not efficient considering the meager payments. When I received the first transfer I felt it was a good chance to invest in something substantial. I decided to start a timber business because none existed in that area. It has started producing good profits that is why I spent the second transfers on buying items I could not have bought using the first transfers. I feel good after restocking and establishing the business fully
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($547 USD)
access_time over 5 years ago
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Describe the biggest difference in your daily life.
The biggest difference in my daily life is that, right now I am hopefull of starting my own workshop business because I already bought timber.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
The moment I received the transfer I felt very happy, I was walking on the road and decided to go back home and tell my wife out of the joy. I knew that I will accomplish my goals.
What did you spend your first transfer on?
I spent part of my second transfer on purchasing 32 pieces of iron sheets and timber which I intend to use in establishing my home because I still stay at my parent's place. I also bought timber which I will use in my own workshop. The remaining amount went on two bags of maize that we ate as a family.
Enrolled
access_time almost 6 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
Receiving this money means that I can finally open my own carpentry workshop as I often work for other carpenters who pay me very little money.
I will thus use the transfers to build a shed, buy some wood to stock for use when I am making furniture and finally buy some more tools. This will mean that I will have a sustainable source of income.
What is the happiest part of your day?
The happiest part of my day is around midday after having lunch.
I often get to visit my friends and we chat about politics and current affairs, this is often the highlight of my day.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
The biggest hardship that I currently face is lack of a sustainable source of income.
I don't have my own workshop and when I am working for others I have to accept whatever I am paid, this means that at times I work for little cash while the owners of the workshops make a lot of money from the furniture I make.
