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 > Godfrey's Profile
Godfrey's family
Godfrey
landscapeCountry:
kenya
workOccupation:
Other
faceAge:
34
workCampaign
Kenya Large Transfer
There will be no further updates from this completed recipient.
3rd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($313 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 ahead and beyond, my focus will be dedicated to mango farming, inspired by the evident profitability from observing my neighbor's success. I am determined to expand my efforts by planting more seedlings, with the goal of eventually reaching a total of 2000 mango trees. To ensure their optimal growth, I will ensure that they get ample water and fertilizer. I am setting a five-year timeline for the trees to mature and begin bearing fruit. This endeavor holds immense potential as a substantial source of income for my family. The anticipated proceeds from the mango harvests will play a pivotal role in safeguarding my children's education and securing their future.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
I was impressed by how GiveDirectly handles its enrollment process. The sensitization meetings provided a comprehensive overview of the program's goals and intentions. We also had the opportunity to ask questions, and the answers the staff provided were detailed. The whole process was transparent and free from any deceitful activities. In summary, I am very content with the services offered by the organization, and everything went smoothly without any unexpected problems.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I used to admire my neighbour's successful mango farming and wished to have a similar venture of my own. It seemed that mangoes flourish in arid regions like ours and bring substantial profits during harvest season. However, financial limitations, brought on by my job as a public transport driver with a monthly income of just $150, hindered the realization of my aspiration. Nonetheless, when GiveDirectly provided the transfer opportunity, I saw a chance to turn my dream into reality. I used the entire amount towards my farming project. To begin, I utilized $50 to complete the construction of a permanent fence around my three-acre land by purchasing two pieces of chain-link mesh and covering labour costs. Although I had started the fencing with the second transfer, I couldn't complete it at the time. I'm delighted to announce that my land is now properly enclosed, effectively preventing animals from causing harm to my crops. Further, I invested $320 in acquiring a 5000-litre water storage tank, a pivotal addition to my farm. Additionally, I dedicated $50 to purchasing water pipes that enable me to draw water from a nearby river for irrigation purposes. The remaining $50 was utilized to purchase and plant 50 mango seedlings. I'm thrilled to share that the mango trees are thriving, and I attribute this progress to the water tank, which has greatly facilitated efficient irrigation.
 
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($326 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 coming year and beyond, my objective is to venture into the avocado and mango farming due to their potential for higher profits. By doing so, I hope to alleviate the financial burdens in my life. To fulfill this aspiration, I intend to allocate the funds received from GiveDirectly towards this endeavor. I am confident that, with time, I can transform this vision into a tangible reality. Overall, I am grateful for all that I have accomplished thus far.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
The organization demonstrated impeccable performance in delivering its messages and providing financial advice. From the initial enrollment stages to the final stages, their execution was flawless. We were consistently treated with dignity and respect throughout the entire process. The organization consistently delivered high-quality services and ensured that we received the utmost care. Thus far, there have been no areas that require improvement on their part.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
When GiveDirectly promised me money, I immediately knew that my top priority would be to expand my farm by dividing it with fences. This was the most urgent need at the time because it was planting season, but I couldn't afford it before due to financial constraints. I work as a driver in the transport industry, and my wife is employed at a retail shop. We have been blessed with two children. Once I received my second transfer, I used the entire amount of $450 to fence my land, which had been my long-standing goal. This accomplishment has made it possible for me to fulfill my dream of cultivating mangoes and avocados. I am filled with joy and satisfaction by what I have achieved in such a short period of time.
 
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
20000 KES ($151 USD)
access_time over 1 year ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
When I received my first transfer from Give Directly, I was so happy, first because Give Directly kept their word and secondly because I can finally plan myself and get to start something of my own with the financial help extended to me. This was a big deal for my family and me for sure because being given money and an opportunity to utilize it unconditionally at the same time is not a very common thing.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
As a matatu driver, my normal pay ranges from $5 to $3 per day, which is completely insufficient for a family of six. Hence, these transfers have significantly changed my life because they gave me the chance to try something new and provide a different source of income for my family.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I was able to fence an acre and a half in anticipation of this season's planting when I got this initial transfer. The money I get paid as a matatu driver is not at all enough, therefore my objective is to produce maize so that I can feed my family when a drought strikes again and sell some of it to create an income.
 
Enrolled
access_time almost 2 years ago
 
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
Receiving this money means constant food supply for my family of seven. Due to lack of consistent rainfall we lack enough food. I plan on doing irrigation, levelling and fencing. This transfer will change my life forever. I shall plant maize and beans in my one-acre piece of land which will produce food that will last me a year. I am so grateful for this and thankful .
What is the happiest part of your day?
Family wrangles saw us separate from my wife for two years. It really saddened me to live alone for all that time without seeing my children. Two weeks ago we reunited and that has brought me happiness.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Water has been the greatest challenge in this area. Even though there is the availability of piped water, in the nearby shopping center accessing it is challenging. We then have to purchase and it costs us a lot.