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
53150 KES ($433 USD)
access_time almost 2 years ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
I intended to cut the high cost of buying milk by buying a cow and more livestock. This project will help in the event of a future emergency because their reproduction will help pay school fees and other household bills.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
The approach used by GiveDirectly right from the start when we were sensitized and equipped with the project's details was very clear. All the promises made were all delivered, and in my opinion, this was an incomparably work well done throughout our village and even beyond. The staff were true to their words and gave out the same information in every household that removed any doubt that the project could have been untrue. There is nothing wrong with the whole operation as many attest to the fact that GiveDirectly did the best to change our living standards.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Our construction of a two bedroom house that we started after receiving the first transfer was not yet complete. Receiving this transfer was a boost on the construction work as we spent $300 on obtaining paints, several bags of cement, and settling the labor charges. We had been hoping to see the construction complete which we actually did later on. I also spent $200 to buy two mattresses and two beds for my three children and myself. With the remaining $30, I purchased household goods that included foodstuff and other kitchenware that was still missing. I am grateful to GiveDirectly for the great support that has boosted our construction work and also enabled us to add some food to our baskets.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($473 USD)
access_time over 2 years ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I was grazing my livestock a bit far from home when I received the transfer message. It was one of the most exciting moments in my life as I knew a life changing cycle had just kicked off. I called my husband and told him about the exciting news and he couldn't wait me to get home so that we can actualize our plans.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
Previously, I had a very low self esteem and I was ashamed of the condition which we were living in as a family. I felt like a failure and I couldn't invite anyone in my house. I am proud that I was at last able to build a decent house for my family and restore our dignity. I am so grateful to GiveDirectly for enabling me achieve this and giving me hope in life.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Imagine sleeping in a house with rotten iron sheets and holes all around! Would you withstand being rained on every rainy season? Would would you bear cold nights? Basically, it feels like being homeless and sleeping outside the streets and that has been my family struggle for the longest time. My husband being a casual worker on construction sites, he couldn't afford to raise money enough to build a house. The average monthly wage of KES 3000 could only managed to afford us basic needs and pay school fees for our three children. When I received the transfers, we both agreed to build a semi permanent two rooms house and that all what I spend my first transfer on.
Enrolled
access_time over 2 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
The house I currently live in almost falling, my dream has always been to repair it to avoid health problems that might result from its status. This structure gives me sleepless nights because I keep on imagining it falling on use while sleeping. Putting up a good structure is my priority so that my family can have a good living condition. Seeing the project to completion will cost 30,000 KES, after this, I will buy goats because these are the only things that can survive in these harsh conditions. Out of the remaining 80,000 KES, I will spare 50,000 for the livestock and start a grocery business with the balance. Receiving this money means a good living condition and life for my family since I will also be able to have a business that generates revenue.
What is the happiest part of your day?
Being able to feed my children amidst all the struggles has brought joy and happiness to my life. I am glad that I and my spouse are still able to help each other in taking care of our children without putting the burden on one person.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
I walk many kilometers to work in a quarry so that I can put a meal on the table for my children. This kind of work is not easy, especially for a woman. Lack of jobs that offer good payments has left me with no choice but to depend on this one. It is very tiresome and frustrating sometimes but since I have no choice I am left with no other option but to work there. Lack of a job is therefore my biggest challenge in life.
