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.
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2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
53010 KES ($347 USD)
access_time 12 months ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
In the upcoming year and beyond, I aspire to acquire a sewing machine with a purpose to establish a thriving business and also to cater for the clothing needs of my family. The prospect of achieving this blending my professional expertise and personal fulfilment brings a profound sense of joy.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
In my own opinion, GiveDirectly do well in uplifting the life of people by giving the cash directly. The program of giving money directly contributes to high living standards, creating a tangible impact. At the moment I have no further recommendation rather than to encourage GiveDirectly ] to continue doing what they are currently doing
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I Utilized the recent transfer of 550$ wisely, enhancing both my home and overall well being. I invested in livestock acquiring two additional goats, doubling my initial count to four. I also invested our motorcycle business by buying two extra tires. This not only strengthens my livelihood but also provide a sense of financial security. Improvement to my living space included adding two doors, replacing previous makeshift curtains. This upgrade not only offers a better sense of privacy but also ensures security of my belongings, Furthermore, I invested in a mattress which has improved the quality of sleep for me, my husband and our eight months old kid. In a thoughtful move, I set a side some funds for emergencies, to solidify my financial resilience.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($375 USD)
access_time 1 year ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
It was around 3 p.m., and I was at home, corn-shelling the maize I had harvested when my spouse called. After the call, I noticed an envelope-like icon on my phone screen. When I opened it, I was astonished to see that the first transfer from GiveDirectly had been deposited into my account. I couldn't believe my eyes. The largest amount I had ever received before was just $20. This was the first time I had received such a significant sum of money all at once. I felt an overwhelming sense of happiness and relief wash over me, knowing that this support would make a real difference in my life.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
When I look back, it's hard to believe how different life used to be. I was stuck in a cycle of struggling to make ends meet, relying on odd jobs that barely put food on the table. There were times when my family had to skip meals just to get by. My life was tough, and I couldn't provide for my family as I wished. But everything changed when I received a cash transfer from GiveDirectly. With that money, I was able to buy a motorbike, and it has transformed our lives. I now earn a living from the income I get from it, ensuring my family never goes without food. I can't thank GiveDirectly enough for allowing me to improve our lives.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I was overjoyed when I received the cash transfer from GiveDirectly. It was a turning point for my family. We decided that our top priority was to secure a stable source of income. With $370, we purchased a second-hand motorbike for my husband. He started a transportation business, ferrying light cargo and people from one place to another. It was tough in the beginning, but slowly his earnings started to grow, and we saw hope on the horizon.
I also decided to invest $65 in a new mattress. Our old one was worn out and uncomfortable, making it difficult to get a good night's sleep. With the new mattress, our sleep improved, and we felt more rested and ready to face each day. We also bought two goats for $50, seeing it as an investment in our future.
Additionally, we used some of the money to buy a solar panel. This was a game-changer for our family, especially for our children. They could now study well at night, which improves their school performance. The remaining funds were used to buy food and clothes for our children, ensuring they had the basics they needed. Thanks to GiveDirectly for transforming our lives through unconditional cash transfers.
Enrolled
access_time over 1 year ago
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
I have a young family of three members . My husband and I do casual jobs earning approximately $20 per month which caters for food only. Most of the time the family goes without food since the income is very low. I will use $500 to buy ten goats as an investment. This is a way of leveraging myself from poverty because the goats will multiply. The house lacks beddings. I have a four months baby and we sleep on the floor. This not favourable for my child health. I will use $120 to buy a bed and a mattress . The remaining amount will help my husband go to college and acquire skills.
What is the happiest part of your day?
On April 2023, we received rain in the village and I did maize crop farming with my husband. We have three acres ready for harvesting now. This has brought happiness in my life since I will be able to breast feed my child well . The harvest has brought happiness in my life.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Food shortage is the challenge I am currently facing in life. My husband and I does casual jobs earning approximately $20 per month which caters for food only and it is not enough to sustain us the whole month. A bigger part of the month we go without food and I do breast feed. It is hard time for me sure.