GDLive Newsfeed
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.
Stages:
 
Enrollment
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Transfers
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Completed
Newsfeed > Linah's Profile
Linah's family
Linah
landscapeCountry:
kenya
workOccupation:
Raising livestock
faceAge:
57
workCampaign
Kenya Large Transfer
There will be no further updates from this completed recipient.
3rd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($311 USD)
access_time over 1 year ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
In the years to come and beyond, my main priority will be to successfully finish the ongoing construction project. Furthermore, I have intentions to expand my tomato farming from half an acre to a full acre. This expansion is aimed at maximizing profits and generating additional income to expedite the completion of the house's construction.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
What stands out as a remarkable aspect of GiveDirectly's assistance is the unconditional nature of its transfers. Unlike some programs that come with specific conditions or restrictions, GiveDirectly provides recipients with the freedom to decide how to allocate the funds according to their individual circumstances. This flexibility is incredibly empowering, as it recognizes that each recipient's needs and priorities can vary greatly. Kudos to GD for that.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
With the initial transfer, we began the construction of our long-envisioned permanent three-bedroom house. The funds covered all necessary materials, allowing us to initiate the project. Upon receiving the recent transfer, we entirely used it to start laying the foundation and constructing the wall courses. While we have exhausted all the funds, construction is underway, and I am optimistic that our children will assist us in completing this important project. We plan to combine their support with proceeds from our tomato farming and by selling some of our goats. This combined effort will ensure the successful completion of our dream house.
 
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($318 USD)
access_time over 1 year ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
Currently, my primary objective is to dedicate my efforts towards completing the construction of a decent house that I have undertaken for myself. In order to turn this vision into a reality, my plan involves utilizing the funds from my third transfer, as well as the profits generated from my farm. I am fully aware of the significance of this endeavor and express immense gratitude for the support that has played a pivotal role in significantly improving my quality of life.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
I was genuinely impressed by the level of freedom we had in utilizing the funds according to our individual needs. The field officers went the extra mile to thoroughly explain the process, offer guidance on necessary procedures, and create a supportive environment where we felt comfortable expressing our thoughts. During the sensitization meetings, we were treated with the utmost respect and fairness, experiencing no discrimination of any kind. Moreover, the program provided valuable security information to ensure the safeguarding of our funds. In summary, I find the program's operations to be flawless, without any notable concerns that warrant attention.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
The long-cherished dream of building a decent house for ourselves was something I had envisioned for a considerable period. However, various responsibilities such as school fees and medical expenses, stemming from my joint condition, had prevented its realization in the past. Recognizing that acquiring building materials was a crucial first step, my husband and I decided to utilize the entirety of our transfer, supplemented by some savings, to purchase them in preparation for the construction. While my husband primarily relies on farming, I sustain our livelihood through goat rearing and poultry farming, albeit with some limitations due to my medical condition. Our children have all grown up, leaving just the two of us, relying on each other for support. Reaching these significant milestones brings a profound sense of relief and satisfaction.
 
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
20000 KES ($146 USD)
access_time over 1 year ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I received the first payment from GiveDirectly, which confirmed the receipt of the transfer on March 15th at 3:00 p.m. As I was unable to read the message, I was grateful to be with my children who were able to confirm the receipt and source of the payment. The moment was filled with excitement and joy, and my husband was equally elated by the news. The following day, I collected the payment on my way to purchase food at the nearby shopping center. The experience of receiving the payment was indescribable, as it marked the beginning of a new chapter in my life. The payment meant that I could now provide for my family's basic needs and take the first step towards a better future. I couldn't thank GiveDirectly enough for their support in my time of need.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
Since I received the first payment from GiveDirectly, the most significant change in my daily life has been the abundance of food in our household. Previously, we struggled to purchase food in small quantities, but now, thanks to the support from GiveDirectly, I was able to buy a full sack of maize, along with other much-needed goods that we had been missing. It is such a relief not to have to worry about where the next meal will come from and to be able to enjoy a more satisfying and fulfilling diet. The security of knowing that we have enough food to sustain us has been a significant source of comfort, and it has allowed us to focus on other important aspects of our lives, such as farming activities and education. Overall, the support from GiveDirectly has brought a great change to my daily life and given me a sense of hope for the future.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
As the head of a family of seven, I have always struggled to provide for my family through subsistence and livestock farming, a difficult task due to the unpredictable droughts that often strikes our region. Despite my best efforts, the income I made from casual labor was barely enough to put food on the table. However, with the support of GiveDirectly, I was finally able to purchase a full sack of maize and other household necessities for $90, marking a significant change in our circumstances. We carefully managed the food to ensure it lasted as long as possible while we worked to replenish our supplies. Additionally, I used $20 of the funds to cover medication costs for a knee problem I had been experiencing. I invested $50 in tilling my acre of land and planting seedlings, with a $20 labor charge. I also used some of the funds to cover transportation costs for my two grandchildren as they returned to school, providing them with $9 as a token of my appreciation for their company during the holidays. I used the remaining funds to replenish exhausted household items. I am incredibly grateful for GiveDirectly's support and am eager to make the most of the remaining transfers.
 
Enrolled
access_time almost 2 years ago
 
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
I plan to use the transfers to buy food. Since at the moment there is draught we are faced with a lack of food and water. I will buy a bag of maize at 60 dollars. This will ensure that we have enough food in our home. Additionally, for the remaining amount of the transfers we plan to fence out the farm and add some livestock to the ones we already have. This is important for us since it serves as an investment into the future. I'm looking forward to the transfers since they will be of great help to me.
What is the happiest part of your day?
My happiness came in December of 2021. We were able to welcome all our children and grandchildren who came home for Christmas celebrations and brought with them alot of goodies. This was a great miment which made me very happy and I still have the events of that day stuck in my mind. This delighted me greatly.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Since 2003 I have been suffering from arthritis which has hindered me from working. I have to depend mostly on my children and house help. This greatly frustrates me since I cannot work and support my family. In addition, I'm also faced with the challenge of drought which has led to a lack of water and food. It is really difficult since we are forced to go hungry some times or walk long distances in the search of water.