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.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
When I was young and energetic, I used to take up any casual job I came around. I was able to provide for my family without struggling so much. The situation now is totally opposite, my old age limits me to light casual jobs which are less paying. This explains why I am struggling now to put food on the table and provide some basic needs for my family of five. We relocated to this place which is extremely dry having been displaced by the swelling lake Baringo in the year 2010. The weather here is not favorable for crop farming, this came up with its fair share of challenges. We rely on food from the markets which are selling at exorbitant prices. This adds another burden to us.
What is the happiest part of your day?
A week ago my first born son Basil Lemutelia paid me a visit. It was at that time that I was struggling financially and I had no food in store for my family of five. The unthinkable happened, my son surprised me with a bag of shopping. I was excited and felt grateful.
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
Perennial food shortage is the enemy in my household, I always seek assistance from my sons and neighbors. This is at times embarrassing, GiveDirectly's cash transfer program will give me the dignity of supporting my family without any financial assistance from my sons and neighbors. I will stock enough food for the family with $100. The transfers from GiveDirectly will also enable me to settle the $400 school fees arrears for my son, Mattin Munyoki, who is studying electrical engineering at Nairobi University. I will use the remaining transfers to buy 5 goats which will be another source of family income some years to come.
