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 owned nothing at first in terms of livestock though to us they are assets that can be of help to me in case of financial hardship. Currently, I own a cow courtesy of GiveDirectly. I expect that it will reproduce in the future and increase in number. I will also be getting milk from it for my family consumption.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
It was early in the morning when my neighbor informed me that transfers had been sent. I curiously went and checked my phone to confirm and I realized that Indeed I had received the money in my Mpesa account. I was greatly overjoyed for receiving this money meant a change to my whole life.
What did you spend your first transfer on?
I spent part of the transfer on buying livestock which includes a cow at KES 15000. This cow to me is a long term investment because I am expecting it to reproduce shortly and increase in number. I also purchased a solar panel for lighting purposes in my household. I have been using the lamps which were costly to me since I had to buy kerosene daily. My children can effectively study with this lighting and also charge my phone. I also added stock to my food kiosk business and paid school fees for my children both in high school and in primary school.
Enrolled
access_time over 5 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
With three of my children joining secondary school next year, I feel that Give Directly's intervention is quite timely. Such a responsibility requires alot financial muscle which I do not have but am thankful now because GD will be of much help as I will spend most of the transfers on their fees and shopping. With the rest I will purchase oxen to expand my farming and increase stock in my catering business.
What is the happiest part of your day?
Afternoon is the happiest part of my day because it brings my family together. We cook and eat before dispersing to our various activities.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Limited financial resources has been my biggest impediment in life. This has resorted to insufficient food in my home, lack of school fees for my children and provision of other basic needs. One of my biggest worries as at now is how my 3 children will transition to secondary school next year at one go. The finances required for their shopping, transport and fees overwhelms me. I am grateful though that GD has come to my aid just in time.
