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 > James's Profile
James's family
James
landscapeCountry:
kenya
workOccupation:
Other
faceAge:
58
workCampaign
Standard Kenya
There will be no further updates from this completed recipient.
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
53075 KES ($520 USD)
access_time over 4 years ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
I had lived in a pitiable condition under an old weak rusty iron sheet roofed structure. I used to be rained on every time it rained since it was leaking all over. The structure was at risk of collapsing in case of heavy rain a situation that had stressed me a lot and the presence of maggots feeding on my bodies like we were corpse made me feel miserable because there nothing much I could do from the little finances I had . I wished I could change it but I couldn't due to scarce resources thus I just lived at the mercy of the lord. Currently, my life has greatly changed because using these transfers, I got an opportunity to build a new house hence I am relieved from the burden of getting my clothes and bedding soaked due to the leaking roof in case of rains. Living in this decent house to me is the biggest difference in my daily life and I thank GiveDirectly.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
GiveDirectly did well through working independently without involving second party in enrollment and selection of eligible recipients. This made the whole process transparent as integrity was key in every step. I do not have anything to say on what they did no to well . Personally, I will forever be grateful to GiveDirectly for bringing change in my life at the most needed time.
What did you spend your second transfer on?
I spent my most recent transfer to pay school fees for my daughter who is in secondary school so that she can study without any interference. The remaining amount of money I bought building materials and paid workers who facilitated the construction of my present decent three roomed house. Before, the previous house I used to stay in was old leaking and at a risk of collapsing as a result we were the talk of the village since it resembled a dogs habitation . This situation promoted selflessness wishing that I could get any break through soon. Unfortunately it was impossible because of insufficient funds. Thanks GiveDirectly for bringing hope to my life once again.
 
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($547 USD)
access_time almost 6 years ago
attach_money
 
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life.
The biggest difference in my daily life is that I am happy I will have my own house.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
The moment I received the money,I was overwhelmed with happiness. Honestly,I did not eat that evening. I remember eating the next day morning.
What did you spend your first transfer on?
I am planning to spend my first transfer on buying cement and other building materials that I will use to build a new house. I have been staying away from home so,I want to have my own.
 
Enrolled
access_time almost 6 years ago
 
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
The biggest hardship I have faced in my life is being without a stable source of income. My children have dropped out of school because I can not afford to pay their school fees.
What is the happiest part of your day?
The happiest part of my day is in the morning when herding cows for my employer. I know at the end of the month I will be paid.
What does receiving this money mean to you?
Receiving this money means I am going to own a house. Currently my family lives in a relatives house.