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?
It was around 3 PM, and I was sitting under a tree at home, enjoying the shade, when I heard a message alert on my phone. I handed it to my grandchildren to check for me, and moments later, they shouted with excitement, “Grandpa, it’s money from GiveDirectly!” A wave of happiness washed over me. My first thought was to buy goats, as it was the one thing I truly needed. I already had everything else food and a good house thanks to the help of my employed children, but the goats would bring me even more security and joy.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
Before receiving the cash transfer, my wife and I mostly depended on our children for everything. They would help us with food and other needs since we are old and unable to work. Although they never complained, I often felt like a burden, especially when it came to daily expenses like food. We lived comfortably, but I always wished I could contribute more to ease their load.After receiving the transfer, everything changed. I was able to purchase two goats, which are now my form of savings. Having these goats has given me a sense of financial security that I didn’t have before. I know that when they multiply, I can sell them for any unexpected expenses, instead of always asking my children for help. The extra money allowed me to buy enough food to last us for a while, lifting that burden off my children for the time being.Now, I feel more independent and capable of helping my family. Even though my children continue to support me, I’m happy that I could do something to take care of my wife and myself. The goats are an investment for our future, and the food has brought us comfort. Thanks to this transfer, I feel like I’m contributing to my family's well-being, and it has brought a sense of pride and relief into my life.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
When I received the cash transfer, the first thing I thought of was buying goats. I used $100 from the money to purchase two goats, knowing they would be a great source of income in the future. For us, goats are like savings—they multiply over time, and we can sell them whenever we need money for emergencies. This gave me peace of mind, knowing that I now have a reliable way to support myself and my wife in case something happens.The rest of the money went towards buying food. My wife and I are old now, and we usually rely on our children to help us with food and other essentials. But since I received this transfer, I felt it was my turn to take some pressure off them. With the money, I was able to stock up on enough food, which not only benefited us but also allowed our children to focus on their own families without worrying about us for a while.I feel very blessed because our life has been good overall. Our children are employed and have been taking care of us, but this transfer gave me the chance to do something for myself and my family. We live a peaceful life with our three grandchildren often visiting to keep us company. Thanks to this support, I feel secure and content, knowing that I have made a wise investment with the goats and helped ease the burden on my children.
Enrolled
access_time 4 months ago
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
I plan to spend the money wisely. It's a chance I'm happy for. Livestock has been my main source of income since childhood. I know how to keep them, we plan to buy two cows. It will cost approximately $600, the cows will provide us with milk for tea. Some extra milk can be sold for more income.
Goats also do well here, and I need to add some more. I plan to buy six goats, this can cost about $300. When they breed, we can sell to buy food or use during emergencies.
Due to the drought experienced here and the difficulty in growing crops. It's important that we set aside the rest of the transfer for food supplies. We'll save so that we can buy food.
What is the happiest part of your day?
My son built me a better house when he got employed. This has been my biggest joy since we live happily. It's safe and warm at night. I don't have to worry about insects disturbing me during my sleep.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
We live in a dry area, and depend on goat rearing. Due to the frequent drought, there are less animal feeds in the bushes. This means I cannot keep many goats due to the little pasture. When I was younger I had more goats.
Goats support my family since I can sell and even buy food. Few goats affect my ability to provide for my family.