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.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I was at home relaxing when I overheard my neighbours talking about the receipt of their initial transfer. For a moment I thought that it was a mere talk. Then suddenly my son came and informed me that I had received the promised transfer too. I was overjoyed and happy because I knew that my life would be uplifted. My son and I then planned on how we would withdraw our transfers. I am happy to have received the support in my old age.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The biggest difference in my life today is that I was able to purchase a dairy cow. Due to my old age, I was not able to acquire one since I depend on my children for daily upkeep. In addition to that, I am glad that I was able to clear school fees arrears for my grandson. I am forever grateful for the support that has lifted life to a more comfortable one.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I used to work as a businesswoman but I was forced to leave the business due to old age. I am no longer energetic enough to be walking up and down. Thus I was left to depend on my children for my upkeep. Upon receiving my transfer I used KES 20,000 on buying a dairy cow and then I used KES 10,000 on my grandson's school fees since he is an orphan under my care. Lastly, I saved the remaining amount. I am happy that I could accomplish my dreams in a short period.
Enrolled
access_time over 2 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
When the construction of my permanent house was done, the toilet and bathroom works were not factored in. Later on, I saw the need for it and started the construction last year 2021. It is done halfway and some works are still pending. This transfer could not have come at a better time than this, I am happy that I will be able to finish up on the remaining work. It will cost approximately KES 70000 to do all the works. I plan to use the remaining money to buy foodstuffs.
What is the happiest part of your day?
I am comfortable and have a beautiful house courtesy of my children who pooled resources for the construction of it. The construction was completed in October last year and in December we had a wonderful housewarming ceremony. I was overjoyed. Children can be a blessing and indeed it gave me the reason to thank God for them.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
At my old age, my health is compromised. I suffer from high blood pressure and I am on drugs to check on it. I have been attending Tenwek hospital on a monthly basis for checkups and to replenish the drugs I am using. I was told that it must be on check so that it does not trigger diabetes. I thank God that there is a lot of improvement.
