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?
In the coming years, I want to accomplish stability for my family by investing in my farm. When God blesses me with a good harvest and I have a surplus, I plan to use that money to pay for my children's school fees. Education is very important to me, and I want to make sure my children get the best opportunities. I also aim to use the income to meet our basic needs, ensuring that we live comfortably without struggling. By focusing on farming, I believe I can build a sustainable future for my family. My goal is to improve our lives and provide for my children’s future through hard work and God's blessings.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
I really appreciate how GiveDirectly follows up with us to make sure we use the unconditional cash correctly, so we don’t misuse it. It's also reassuring that they don’t ask for the money back once it’s given, which helps us feel secure in using it wisely. I have not noticed anything bad about GiveDirectly; everything has been well organized and transparent. The support they provide is very helpful, and I feel confident in how they handle everything. They’ve made sure to guide us properly, and I’m grateful for that. Overall, I’m satisfied with the way they’ve conducted the process, and I haven’t seen any areas for improvement.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Life has been a struggle, especially with farming and taking care of six children. My crops were constantly being destroyed by roaming animals, which was very embarrassing and frustrating. With the $350 from GiveDirectly, I bought materials to fence my farm. This fencing will not only protect my crops from goats but also allow me to leave the farm safely without worrying about damage. It feels like a huge relief, knowing my work won’t go to waste anymore.I also used part of the funds to buy clothes for my family, spending $50. We had no decent clothes, and as the new year approached, I wanted my children to have something nice for Christmas. It’s a simple joy, but it meant a lot to me to see my kids dressed well, something I hadn’t been able to afford for a long time. Their smiles made everything feel worth it.The remaining $50 was spent on food, ensuring we have enough to eat. I used to depend on farming, but with my husband working hard with the animals and crops, having a steady supply of food gives me peace of mind. Life has become easier, and we are truly grateful for the support from GiveDirectly. It has made a significant difference in our lives, and we now feel more secure and hopeful for the future.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
20000 KES ($155 USD)
access_time 2 months ago
attach_money
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
My phone was charging while I was outside relaxing with my husband when my neighbor came to ask if I had received the transfer from GiveDirectly. I didn’t know, so I rushed inside to check my phone, and yes, I had received $200! I was so happy. My husband, who was curious, saw the smile on my face, and at that moment, he knew I had received the money. We were both excited because I was finally going to pay off a loan that had stressed me.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
Schools were opening, and obviously, my daughter's fees were needed. The thought of not having any money to give her was devastating, and my only option was to sell our goats. Not just one, but about four. Just as I was about to proceed with the selling, I received the best news ever: my first transfer from GiveDirectly. It was indeed the right time; I didn’t continue with my plan to sell the goats but used the transfer instead. If it hadn’t been for GiveDirectly, we would have had to sell our goats, our only investment right now after losing our crops to the floods. Thank you, GiveDirectly.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I received my first transfer when schools were about to open. Our plan was to sell our goats to raise money for our daughter's fees, as we didn't have any funds available. Luckily, I received the money from GiveDirectly, so I set aside $100 for my daughter's fees and $10 for her transport to school and a few essentials. Additionally, I had a loan from a women's group to support my crop farming, and I needed to reduce the amount to avoid penalties. I paid $50 from the transfer toward the loan, and I used $30 from the remaining to buy food items that we didn’t have at that time. Furthermore, I spent $10 to buy clothes for my youngest daughter since hers were worn out, and I wanted her to feel the joy of GiveDirectly's support. Thank you, GiveDirectly!
Enrolled
access_time 4 months ago
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
As a family of five relying solely on farming, our hearts are deeply invested in our 4-acre plot where we grow beans and maize. It pains us to see our crops damaged by animals due to the lack of fencing, especially when our financial situation makes it difficult to afford necessary protections. Now, with the anticipated transfers, there is a profound sense of relief and hope. I plan on spending $600 towards fencing our farm. This step not only safeguards our crops but also preserves our way of life and sustains our livelihood. Additionally, setting aside $200 for my daughter's grade 9 school fees brings me immense reassurance. Education is crucial for her future, and ensuring she can continue her studies without interruption is a priority close to my heart. Lastly, spending $200 on clearing our debts lifts a heavy burden off our shoulders. It signifies a fresh start, free from financial worries that have weighed us down.All this , I am grateful to GiveDirectly for the assistance.
What is the happiest part of your day?
Three months ago, our area, Longewan, was hit hard by flash floods that caused significant property damage. It was a challenging time for our community, but thankfully, my family of five was spared from the worst of it. We opened our doors to host other villagers who were severely affected, offering whatever help we could provide. It was a relief that despite the hardship around us, we could support our neighbors during such a difficult period.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
As a family of five, farming is our livelihood, but we are facing some significant challenges. Our 4-acre plot, where we grow maize and beans, is not fenced, so goats often come in and damage our crops, leading to losses that hurt us financially. I have been wanting to fence it off to protect our crops, but money is really tight right now. Another big worry is raising school fees for my daughter, who is in grade 9. The $40 per term is a struggle for us to come up with, especially when crop yields are not reliable. Sometimes, she is even sent home because we cannot pay the fees on time. It is tough, but we are doing our best to navigate through these challenges and provide for our family's future.
