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 still remember it was around 3 pm when I was in my house relaxing after completing my morning work. I was with my grandchild who in the house when I received the message from Givedirectly. Being illiterate, the helper confirmed the SMS and informed me that I had received my transfer. I was very happy about receiving my transfer since it would assist me in meeting the dream that I had.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
Being able to get proper medical care for myself is the biggest difference in life. Previously, I did not have any money to support myself in getting medication for the legs conditions that has been disturbing me for more than 3 years now. Nowadays, I can walk and engage in my daily activities which was not the case before the medication.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I spent $133 of the recent transfer to purchase one local dairy cow and one goat. This is because I had desire to own one that would provide a steady supply of milk for myself. Additionally, it is my future investment that would support me whenever I encounter financial challenges since I will sell the offspring. In addition, I used $300 to construct a decent two-roomed, mud-walled iron-roofed house for myself. Previously, I had to seek shelter in the grandson's something that was very bad considering that I am frequently visited by important visitors like in the in-laws. The remaining amount assisted me to seek medical care due to my leg problems and food for myself.
Enrolled
access_time almost 3 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
For more than 50 years my dream of living in a Decent house still stands. stepping on a cemented floor is a feeling I wanted to have on my feet, with no mud that can dirty my beddings and no fleas living in.
I have been living in mud houses with a lot of jiggers, it was very painful walking, it's long gone but the hard scars on my fingers and feet still remind me of my hurting experience. This then is my chance of letting my dream come true. With 40000 KES I can build a one-room house with a cemented floor.
What is the happiest part of your day?
At my old age, I cannot depend on myself anymore. Having my grandchildren around me gives me joy and hope of many years of living to see them grow to adulthood. They show love and a sense of belonging, this brings joy and happiness because most people of my age are neglected.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Since I was diagnosed with peptic ulcers three years ago, I have not received any proper medical attention. I have been taking painkillers since my son whom I depend on is also a responsibility to his family. He does not have a sustainable source of income, he majorly does casual jobs with which he can only get 200 KES which can only cater for food. I have never felt well, I have been having serious burning in my stomach which is very irritating.
