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 ($467 USD)
access_time almost 3 years ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
I do not have any new goals so far because the main one that I had was to construct a new house. I am so thankful that this was a success. For years, it has been hectic because my house was very small and in a poor state. Therefore every rainy season we had to seek shelter from friends and relatives which was a bit embarrassing. I am so happy that I was able to fulfill my dream.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
In my opinion, GiveDirectly does well by ensuring that everyone was satisfied. First, the cash transfer was unconditional, we were all allowed to choose what to purchase depending on our needs. Also, the money was non-refundable which stood out. I do not see any sector GiveDirectly failed us.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I spent KES 5000 of my second transfer on clearing fees for my children and bought new school uniforms. Their exams were approaching and I was certain that they would miss them. I am happy that the money came in good time. In addition to that, I bought three goats at KES 9000. These will now serve as the living assets that I can rely on at any time. Also, I bought a new bicycle at KES 12000 which has now been of help especially in transporting water from the dams since they are 12KM away from the village we lived In. In addition, I bought fifteen pieces of iron sheets at KES 15000 which was for the completion of my house. With the remaining amount of money, I am using it to buy foodstuffs for the family.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($493 USD)
access_time 3 years ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
It was around 9 AM when I was at the nearby trading centre when my mobile phone started ringing so loudly. I was a bit curious and since my spouse was right beside me, I asked him to check who it was. Upon checking, he realized that it was an Mpesa message from GiveDirectly, they had debited my first transfers as I had been promised earlier. I was super excited and we couldn't contain our joy. I remember we even decided to rush back home and started panning on bow best we could utilize the cash without wasting even a single coin.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The biggest difference in my daily life is that through the transfers, I have been able to shelter in a better house. The previous one was very small and it could barely accommodate all my family members. To add to that, it would leak excessively whenever it rains forcing me to squeeze my items to corners to avoid them being damaged. It has been tough all along especially with the harsh weather and cold nights which were unbearable. We had to seek shelter from different individuals which were frustrating. I had always wanted to even renovate it but this was not possible because I depend on the little income from the casual jobs. This could only cater for the family's daily meals and settle other minor bills. I am now at peace and happier because I am finally sheltering under one roof with my eight family members which have been my long time dream. I am also glad that through GiveDirectly, I am no longer stressed, worried, or even feel embarrassed like before.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I spent part of my first transfer on buying building materials such as building poles KES 7600, pieces of iron sheets, threads and nails. This was for the construction of a brand new house because the initial one is in a bad state and anytime it would collapse. Also, I bought a bicycle at KES 11000 which has been of great help to me in carrying water because the water point is quite far 10KM from the village. Also, I cleared a school of KES 5000 for my three children who are still in primary schools and this has motivated them in such a way that their faces can tell every morning. With the remaining amount of money, I bought foodstuffs, school uniforms and other household items that I was lacking.
Enrolled
access_time 3 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
Receiving this money means a specious house for my family. Due to financial challenges I have not been able to build a big house that can accommodate my house hold of nine members. I always get embarrassed sharing a one bed room house with my children which is against our tradition. I plan to spend KES 30,000 to construct a two bed room house.I will also use KES 28,000 to buy two indigenous cows and an ox plough to cultivate my farm and hire to my neighbors for income.
The remaining amount will help me cater for other basic needs such as school fees and food.
What is the happiest part of your day?
The happiest part of my day is in the evening. This is because I get enough time to rest and share food with my family. Unlike in the afternoon and morning hours when I might even miss the food.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
The biggest hardship I have ever faced is lack of money.I am a house wife and my husband depends on casual jobs of selling charcoal which earns him very little KES 1200 per week.Due to this l have always been struggling to raise money to build a big house. Sometimes, I am forced to ask my neighbors to accommodate my visitors. Something that is embarrassing