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.
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2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
53150 KES ($514 USD)
access_time 5 years ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
My life is different than it would have been if I never received GiveDirectly's transfers in that I started a small grocery business. I was a helpless housewife that depended heavily on my spouse. I had felt ashamed of this but I couldn't do anything to get out of the situation. I am happy that the transfers has taken away the shame and brought back my self-esteem in our society. The profits from this project have enabled me to provide for some of my family's needs. Currently, I no longer depend on my spouse to provide us with everything as I did before. I had also always lived in a house with two rooms because of our low income. Right now, I have expanded my house by adding another two-bedroom with the transfers. I am happy and peaceful since I no longer shy off when I have visitors like before.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
In my opinion, the fact that GiveDirectly was keen on transparency and voluntary participation to their beneficiaries made the less fortunately households to be genuinely selected and benefit from the money. I also appreciate the way GiveDirectly went an extra mile in teaching the beneficiaries the possible best ways which they could spend their money because majority of them it was the first time to handly such a lumpsum amount. To me I do not see any laxity in GiveDirectly's operations.
What did you spend your second transfer on?
I spent my entire second transfer on buying 25 pieces of iron sheets , nails, timbers ,sand and paid laborers which were necessary in the extension of our house . To me basically it an honor to own such as spacious house that I have always dreamed of and my gratitude goes to GiveDirectly.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($544 USD)
access_time 6 years ago
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Describe the biggest difference in your daily life.
There has always been a stand-off between my parenst and my husband because he had not paid my dowry ever since we got married four years ago. This has undermined my relationship with parents but it is no more because of Give Directly.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I felt very happy because my husband will finally pay dowry which caused some problems between my husband and my parents.
What did you spend your first transfer on?
I spent my transfer on buying a goat, chicken, bedding and two cows which I gave my husband to pay my dowry.
Enrolled
access_time 6 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
Receiving this money means a new dawn in my life. I shall spend this transfer in starting up a second hand clothes business . From the business, I shall be able to generate extra income.
What is the happiest part of your day?
The happiest part of my day is during the afternoon since I always interact and share more with my friends at that moment. Their pieces of advice always keep me focused in life.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
The biggest hardship I face in life is difficulty in providing meals and other basic household requirements. My husband has been away for a couple of months and I am the one in charge of all household requirements, yet I do not have a job.
