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?
My phone was charging that evening and I wasn't expecting that the transfers were to be send that day that's why I did bother to switch it on. As I was going to bed, I switched on my phone and the first massage that popped was the Mpesa message. I couldn't believe it was true. I was so overwhelmed by mixed emotions because by then, I was broke and sick and there was no one to take care of myself.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
Previously, I used to depend on my brothers for basic needs. It wasn't easy for them getting additional dependant yet they are not economically stable and got families to provide for. With the the transfer, I'm able to buy water and food for myself.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
During the enrollment, the officer who visited me for census couldn't believe in such a miserable structure that I called my house and I told him that I will spend the transfers to build a decent house. My wife left three months ago claiming that she couldn't bear back pains anymore because of sleeping on the floor but I was not in a position to provide what she needs because I broke my leg and hand three years ago and I haven't recovered yet therefore not able to get out there and look for a job. I spend KES 45000 of the transfers to build a two roomed semi permanent house and I'm hoping to buy a bed and a matress in pursuit of trying to see if she can come back home. I have been spending the balance to buy food and water.
Enrolled
access_time almost 3 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
I have been living in a dilapidated house for five years since I got married. We have been living in a poor room without a bed. Getting this money would mean I build a new 2 bedroom house where my family of 2 members would be living. I will spend KES 30000 on buying 24 iron sheets and other building materials. I will also spend KES 10000 to buy new bed and mattress because we currently have none.
What is the happiest part of your day?
I am grateful for my wife who has been so understanding and supportive to me even after I broke both my leg and arm and becoming helpless. She supported me in doing some odd job to atleast have something to keep us going in terms of food. This has really been my source of joy and inspiration.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
I got an accident 3 years ago when I was tapping palm wine which used to my main occupation. I broke both my leg and arm. This has made me not able to perform my work thus depending on my siblings despite being the sole bread winner in my family. Also providing the family with basic needs like food and clothing has been a great challenge for me.
