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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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Completed
Newsfeed > Paulina's Profile
Paulina's family
Paulina
landscapeCountry:
kenya
workOccupation:
Raising livestock
faceAge:
65
workCampaign
Kenya Large Transfer
There will be no further updates from this completed recipient.
3rd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($299 USD)
access_time 6 months ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
Certainly, the support from Givedirectly has set a positive trajectory for my life. Having addressed pressing needs, I now have the confidence that accessing medicine will be easier in the future. The financial stability provided by GiveDirectly allows me to concentrate on essential aspects like food and healthcare. Moreover, I've made a deliberate investment in my grandchild's education by ensuring she continues to enjoy a quality education. With the newfound financial stability, I'm optimistic that her academic journey will be smooth and impactful, providing her with the best possible learning experience until she completes her studies. The transformative impact of GiveDirectly extends beyond immediate needs, paving the way for a better and more secure future for us. I appreciate the opportunities this support has unlocked, and I am determined to make the most of them.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
The assistance from Givedirectly has been nothing short of transformative. We have achieved what seemed nearly impossible due to our age and financial constraints. The dream of having a store to secure our valuables was almost fading away, and even seeking help from our children didn't yield any positive response as they were facing their financial struggles. However, with the support from GiveDirectly, we have managed to overcome this hurdle. This gives us a sense of accomplishment and peace of mind knowing that our valuables are safe and accessible whenever needed. The impact of GiveDirectly goes beyond financial relief; it's about restoring a sense of agency and dignity, allowing us to address long-standing concerns that would have otherwise remained unmet. We are truly grateful for this opportunity that has significantly improved the quality of our lives.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
The recent financial support from GiveDirectly has brought positive changes in my life. Firstly, I managed to ensure the continued education of my grandchild by paying $100 for her secondary school fees. In the past, I used to sell livestock like chickens and goats to secure funds for school fees, which was often challenging. Now I am glad that I can pay without stressing much. Secondly, I invested $200 in acquiring a dairy cow. This strategic decision was influenced by the arid nature of the land, making traditional farming challenging. The dairy cow provides a sustainable milk production for my family as it extends to cormmercial purposes where we could sell the surplus milk. Lastly, I utilized $150 to build a store. This space is crucial for safeguarding valuable items such as medications for livestock and chemicals used in farming, it ensures that these essential items are stored separate from everyday household items, promoting safety and organization. In essence, GiveDirectly has empowered me to make strategic investments that enhance the present and future well-being of the family. I'm grateful for the support that has enabled these positive changes.
 
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($308 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?
As I look forward to the upcoming year and beyond, my aspiration is to prioritize my health. I intend to undergo thorough medical check-ups for my eyes and ears, especially because I have been facing challenges with my hearing. I plan to use my third transfer to achieve this goal. Above all, I am profoundly thankful for all the milestones I've reached on my journey so far.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
I was genuinely impressed by the way GiveDirectly carried out their operations, which demonstrated a high level of insight and professionalism. The officers in charge of the census and registration process effectively introduced the program to us, offering comprehensive information. They made sure to seek our consent before enrolling us, and they showed a genuine interest in our perspectives by giving us ample time to express ourselves and treating our thoughts with the utmost respect.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Upon receiving the transfer, my immediate priority was to pay my children's school fees, as it was the most pressing need at the time. The schools had reopened, but we still had outstanding fees to clear. I used $100 for this purpose. Following that, I spent $120 to purchase three goats, and $100 went towards my husband's medical treatment, as he is currently hospitalized. Finally, I used $100 to fence my land. Previously, accomplishing such tasks seemed unattainable for us, as our limited income was primarily allocated to essential expenses like food and school fees. I am married and earn a livelihood by selling firewood and poultry rearing. My family consists of my husband and our two grandchildren. All of these endeavours would have been impossible without the cash transfer. I am incredibly grateful for your support, as it has significantly improved our living conditions.
 
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
20000 KES ($142 USD)
access_time 10 months ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I vividly recall the moment my transfer arrived, I was enjoying a peaceful afternoon at home when my phone suddenly rang. To my delight, I discovered that GiveDirectly had sent me money, instantly filling me with joy. Overwhelmed with excitement, I couldn't help but share this wonderful news with a friend, who joined me in celebrating the positive turn of events. Filled with newfound enthusiasm, I eagerly started contemplating how to make the best use of the funds.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The biggest difference in my life is the remarkable progress I have achieved within a short span of time. I am immensely grateful that my dreams materialized effortlessly, all thanks to the unconditional transfer I received. One significant accomplishment was the successful fencing of my land, which now allows for seamless ploughing without any interference from my goats and hens. Without the financial support I received, such a task would have been far from easy to accomplish. I am sincerely thankful for the assistance that has significantly elevated my living standards and brought immense joy and fulfilment to our lives.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Following the receipt of my initial transfer, I made a conscious decision to address my most urgent need by spending $65 towards purchasing essential food supplies. Secondly, I invested $100 in fencing my land, ensuring uninterrupted ploughing without interference from the goats. Additionally, I acquired a phone valued at $15 to meet my communication needs. Lastly, I set aside $18 for medication. These objectives were particularly challenging to achieve in the past due to a lack of stable income sources. My husband and I rely on poultry and goat rearing to sustain our family, which includes four children. Nonetheless, I am immensely grateful that I could fulfill these tasks and feel a deep sense of contentment and joy with the outcomes.
 
Enrolled
access_time 1 year ago
 
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
When we plant anything within our compound, it's destroyed. This is due to the openness of our compound. I plan to secure it. It can cost upwards of $500. Securing my compound will enable me to plant vegetables, pawpaws, and mangoes. They can be sold to earn some money and for domestic consumption. I also plan to buy some household items such as a bed and bedding. It can cost $100. We'll then have a better place to sleep. Storage place is also a challenge for us. I plan to build a good store costing $200. It will help me store my foodstuff in a secure place. Food is also a problem. I will then use the rest of the money to buy food. This means we'll not have to worry about food for some time. Priority is a bag of maize. 1 bag costs $60. The other funds will be saved for another foodstuff.
What is the happiest part of your day?
We have about 20 goats including the little ones. It makes me happy to see them. Since we can sell and support our family. It's a joy owning goats.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Hunger is our biggest challenge. We have harvested nothing from our farm for the last 3 years. The drought has been persistent. This has led to zero productivity. To get food we must sell our livestock. This has led to reduced numbers. The drought has affected our ability to feed ourselves. At times we may be forced to have a single meal due to a lack of food. It's very hard sleeping hungry.