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 biggest difference in your daily life.
I can attest that ever since I received my first transfer, my life has never been the same again. Through this transfer, I was able to change my beddings by purchasing a new wooden bed and mattress to replace the old rags that I was using to sleep on. I now enjoy a comfortable sleep unlike before, which makes it be the biggest difference in my daily life. Also, I purchased some goats to keep in my homestead, something I could not fulfil at my own cost. These are assets to me which I can lean on in case of any financial need.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I was woken up by a message alert early in the morning. I curiously went for my phone to check who could have sent a message at that hour. I was greatly overjoyed on realizing that the message was from GiveDirectly that I had received my first transfer.
What did you spend your first transfer on?
I have been using old beddings which were worn out. Due to this, I purchased a new mattress and a bed to sleep on. Also, I purchased four goats to keep in my homestead. I am happy that these goats will reproduce soon and have many of them. I also paid school fees for my grandsons who are in primary school. I paid for them in advance for them to be allowed to continue with their studies, and avoid future disturbances on school fees. I used the rest of the transfer to cater for my household needs and other expenses.
Enrolled
access_time over 5 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
I got injured three months ago after I stumbled and the jerrican I was carrying fell on me. I was put on medication but I stopped two weeks ago because I do not have finances to pay the bills. Currently I am very weak and I fall down at the slight blow of wind. This transfer will help me regain my health as I will be able to continue with medication. I will also invest in goat rearing for income generation purposes. This will make it ease to support my three grandchildren who were neglected by their father after he conflicted with my daughter.
What is the happiest part of your day?
I am mostly happy in the morning after taking breakfast. In most cases this is the only meal I tend to consume for the entire day till evening. This gives me strength to undertake light household chores during the day.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
I spent a lot of money to seek medical care after the injury. Besides, I have not been able to work and I only depend on my children who are casual labourers. Life is very unbearable since I have to buy everything including water yet I do not have any source of income. My family is lacking enough provision of basic needs especially food and most of the times we spend the days hungry.
