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.
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3rd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($295 USD)
access_time 10 months ago
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What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
A significant portion of my recent unconditional cash transfer was dedicated to transforming the state of my dwelling. I allocated funds to purchase a solid wooden door, two windows, and cover labor charges, amounting to $77. This investment was crucial for the completion of my house, a project I had initiated using previous transfers. The structure I used to call home was far from ideal; its walls were weak, and the roof was a patchwork of grass thatching. Living under those conditions was a constant battle against the elements. Rain would seep through, leaving me drenched and shivering. Domestic animals, emboldened by the frailty of my shelter, would invade, posing a threat and causing damage. The fear that accompanied every night was palpable, making each moment a risky endeavor. With this recent infusion of funds, I could fortify my living space, not just against the weather but against the insecurities that had plagued me for too long. With the remaining funds, I made sure to secure another essential aspect of my well-being: sustenance. As a solitary individual, I allocated a portion of the money to buy food. Being a casual laborer earning around $4 a day, daily sustenance is often a challenge. This infusion of funds not only fortified the walls of my home but also ensured that my basic needs were met. It's a testament to the transformative power of financial support, turning a struggle for survival into a journey towards a more secure and dignified life.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
In my opinion, GiveDirectly has truly excelled in their approach. The unconditional money they provided came directly and swiftly, allowing me the freedom to make impactful decisions for my family. Most notably, I now have a house, a tangible and secure asset that has significantly improved our living conditions. The directness of the assistance meant that I had the autonomy to address the most pressing needs in my life, and the result is a newfound sense of stability and comfort.
How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
I aspire to build a thriving livestock farm, encompassing cows, goats, and perhaps more. The dream of owning a sustainable livestock operation is rooted in my desire for self-sufficiency and financial stability. With careful planning and dedication, I aim to establish a diverse herd, not just as an investment but also as a means to support my family and community. The prospect of raising and nurturing these animals feels like a step towards a more secure and fulfilling future. By cultivating this vision, I hope to contribute to the agricultural landscape while creating a legacy that goes beyond mere livestock and embodies resilience and prosperity for generations to come.
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($306 USD)
access_time 12 months ago
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What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Upon receiving my second transfer, I thought of investing in the construction of a decent house for myself. The existing house was small and had a grass-thatched roof. I live alone as I am still single. Financial constraints had prevented me from building a better house earlier, as my income depended on repairing plastic containers in my local area, which wasn't always a reliable source of income. Additionally, I worked part-time as a barber. Consequently, I spent $387 to purchase building materials for the house. Following that, I spent $25 on foodstuffs and settled a debt worth $30. I am absolutely thrilled that I was able to acquire the necessary materials for the house within such a short timeframe.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
From the very beginning of our enrollment until the conclusion of the process, the organization's operations ran seamlessly. We received valuable lessons on money management, and throughout the entire journey, we were treated with utmost dignity and respect. My hope is that the organization will continue to keep us in mind in the future.
How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
My aspiration is to invest in farming to ensure a steady food supply for my household, as this has been a persistent challenge. Planning becomes quite challenging without readily available funds, but I remain hopeful and place my trust in divine providence for a solution. I am filled with happiness and gratitude for the assistance that has brought about substantial improvements in my life.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
20000 KES ($140 USD)
access_time 1 year ago
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What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
The timely arrival of the money was a true blessing; I was almost running out of food that very evening, and the uncertainty of how I would manage the following day weighed heavily on my mind. My work of repairing plastic containers and buckets was unreliable, depending solely on calls from my fellow villagers. On average, I would receive only 10 calls in a month, which amounted to $20 in income.
When I received the transfer, I used $60 to purchase food, which I hope will sustain me for the next month, as I live alone; I do not have a family yet. Additionally, I invested $110 to buy essential household items, including some much-needed clothes since my two sets were already worn out. The bed and mattress I bought to replace the old rugs placed on a muddy floor also brought me immense joy, providing me with the comfort of a proper sleep.
Additionally, my small hut was in a terrible state, with a leaking roof and holes in the mud wall. Devoting $30 to its improvement, I replaced the grass and hired labor to properly smear the walls. The transformation of my living space has brought a sense of pride and contentment.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The biggest difference in my life since I started receiving the transfer is the quality of sleep I now experience. For the first time in my life, I have a bed and mattress in my house, granting me the comfort and rest that I never had before. Gone are the days of sleeping on the floor with makeshift rugs. Now, I can enjoy a good night's sleep like any other person. Thank you Givedirectly for bringing that joy into my life.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
It was in the evening, and as I relaxed behind my house, seeking refuge from the scorching sun under the protective shade of the roof, my mind was preoccupied with worries about where I would find money to provide for my food the next day. My job of repairing broken plastic containers and buckets within the village was unpredictable and dependent on calls from my fellow villagers. On that particular day, I had not received any calls, leaving me uncertain about my next day's meal.
In the midst of these thoughts, my phone suddenly peeped, signalling a new message. Initially, assuming it was just an ordinary Safaricom SMS, I hesitated to check it. However, a curious urge from within prompted me to take a look. To my surprise, the message revealed that I had received GD transfers. I was so overjoyed that I started planning to leave for the nearest town the following morning to buy food.
Enrolled
access_time over 1 year ago
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
I would say my disability is the challenge I face since I cannot do what other people do but I would not be telling the truth. The main challenge that I'm facing currently, is the lack of food. Since I cannot farm I only depend on my menial work repairing plastic containers for my neighbor. However, recently work has been really low which has led to a great lack of money and also food. I also don't have water near my house and I'm forced to walk for about 5 kilometers to the nearest water point which poses a great challenge considering my disability.
What is the happiest part of your day?
The aspect that gives my life meaning and happiness daily is waking up well. I'm also glad that I don't squarely with anyone and I have peace of mind. This delights me so much.
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
I'm very thankful to God that GiveDirectly have come to my village and particularly my household. I have great plans for the transfers and I believe that once I receive them most of my problems will be solved. For the first transfers, I have a plan to buy food since this is the most pressing need. I plan to purchase half a bag of maize at about $35 and 20 kilograms of beans at about $30. I also plan to purchase a bed and bedding since im sleeping on a poorly constructed bed with bad bedding. With the remaining amount, I plan to purchase clothes. I will at least have some dissent clothes to wear since some of my clothes are torn. For the second transfer, I plan to build a house. This will cost me about $450. I will live in a good iron sheet house since my current house has been destroyed by rain and termites. For the third transfer, I plan to start a business a kiosk. I plan to use about $300 of the transfers to accomplish this. With the remaining amount, I will purchase 5 goats at $30 each. This will assist me greatly since in addition to the business I will also have an investment.