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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3rd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($353 USD)
access_time 8 months ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
My main goal for this year is to complete the construction of a new home. My current house is small, and with my kids and grandkids visiting often, I feel the need for a bigger space. The construction has already begun, and I couldn't be happier. I've been able to finance this project using savings from previous transfers from GiveDirectly.
Seeing my grandkids happy and comfortable is my utmost priority, and building a new home will ensure just that. The thought of having a larger, more comfortable space for them to enjoy fills my heart with joy. With each brick laid and each wall erected, I am one step closer to achieving this dream. Thanks to GiveDirectly, I am able to create a better environment for my family, one where love, laughter, and comfort abound.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
I am truly grateful for everything about GiveDirectly's programs. Their transparency has been remarkable, making the entire process run smoothly. From start to finish, I've been impressed by their honesty and integrity.
I have no recommendations for improvement because I believe they're already doing an outstanding job. The change they've brought to my life has been immense, and for that, I am incredibly thankful. GiveDirectly has made a real difference, providing support and opportunity where it's needed most.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Receiving $450 from GiveDirectly was a turning point for me. I decided to invest all of it in buying a 5000-liter water tank. Before, getting clean water was a real struggle. I had to walk over 5 kilometers just to fetch water. But now, with two water tanks in place, collecting rainwater has become our main source. Whenever the tanks run low, I simply refill them. This change has brought so much comfort into my life, especially considering my old age. I no longer have to endure long walks for water, and as a result, my health has improved. Thanks to GiveDirectly, I'm living with less stress, knowing that clean water is readily available right at my doorstep.
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($280 USD)
access_time 10 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, with the assistance of GiveDirectly transfers, my goal is to install water harvesting gutters around the roof and construct a dedicated place for the water tank. This accomplishment holds significant meaning for me as it ensures a sustainable and convenient water source at home. The added happiness and satisfaction stem from the improvement in water accessibility, making daily life more manageable and enjoyable.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
In my view, GiveDirectly is excelling in every aspect, and I find no suggestions for addition or subtraction. They are performing admirably, meeting my expectations and leaving no room for improvement in my opinion.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Recently, I received $450 from GiveDirectly. I spent $320 on purchasing a water tank, eliminating the need to travel 7 kilometers for water. This was especially challenging since my grandchildren, who used to help, are now attending school. The joy of being able to harvest rainwater at home is immense. The remaining $80 was used to buy food for my family, ensuring that both I and my grandchildren have enough to eat. I am now content knowing that our basic needs for water and food are met, bringing happiness to our home.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
20000 KES ($132 USD)
access_time 1 year ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
That afternoon, my phone was within reach, and when the message alert came in, I immediately recognized it as being from GiveDirectly. Excitedly, I called my helper, who had also received the transfer and was on the way to my house, to confirm the good news. The joy was overwhelming, knowing that the money had arrived. After two days, my helper and I went to the nearby shopping center to collect the money, strategically timing our visit to avoid the crowds. It was a moment filled with happiness and anticipation as we prepared to implement the plans we had carefully laid out for the funds.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The biggest difference in my daily life since receiving the first transfer is the abundance of food for my family of two. By allocating a substantial portion of the funds to foodstuffs, we now enjoy a varied and balanced diet, a stark contrast to the days when we had to stick to the same type of meal for an entire week. I express my gratitude to GiveDirectly for the unconditional transfer, which provided us with the flexibility to spend as we saw fit without any restrictions. Currently, I am excited about the prospect of revitalizing subsistence farming, a step that will contribute to long-term food security for our household.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Staying with my grandchild, who is away at school during the day, posed a challenge in providing daily meals, given our limited resources and reliance on goat farming. The first transfer brought immense relief, and I strategically invested in food supplies, anticipating the need for a steady food source. I allocated $70 for a sack of maize, $20 for 10kg of beans, $15 for a 10kg bag of rice, and $10 for 5kg of sugar. Additionally, $50 went towards acquiring other essential household items, including toiletries and kitchen consumables. Recognizing the need for more seating, I purchased three plastic chairs at $20, covering transportation costs from the shopping center to my doorstep. The support from GiveDirectly has been crucial, and I am optimistic about achieving more in the months to come.
Enrolled
access_time 1 year ago
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
Due to the persistent drought, I fetch water a kilometer away at a cost of a dollar a day. This is very expensive considering I do not have any income, my grandchildren come in handy when they close school. I plan on using the transfers to purchase a 10,000 litres water tank which will help reduce the burden and expenses spent on water. This shall ensure I have consistent and clean water for drinking as well as home use. The rest of the transfers I will use to purchase enough food and save other for future use. I am happy as Givedirectly will help me live a better life.
What is the happiest part of your day?
The peace of mind is what I am most thankful for. I sleep well and I do not have relatives who disturb me. I also live in harmony with my relatives and neighbors and that is what I am happy about.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Food insecurity is the biggest challenge currently. For the past three years, I have not harvested from my farm despite the several attempts to plant maize. As a result, I rely on my children to share with me what they have because I cannot do hard jobs to earn a living. Lack of proper nutrition has therefore resulted in my health deteriorating.