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
attach_money
 
Transfers
check
Completed
Newsfeed > Caroline's Profile
Caroline's family
Caroline
landscapeCountry:
kenya
workOccupation:
Casual labor
faceAge:
33
workCampaign
Kenya Large Transfer
There will be no further updates from this completed recipient.
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
53010 KES ($335 USD)
access_time 10 months ago
check
 
How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
In the years ahead, my aspirations are deeply rooted in providing a stable and nurturing environment for my three children. I dream of acquiring a shamba, a piece of land, where they can build their dreams and call home. With unwavering determination, I plan to channel my efforts into expanding my clothing business, not only relying on it for sustenance but also saving diligently. Beyond my entrepreneurial pursuits, I am committed to exploring additional employment opportunities to further secure my family's future. The prospect of achieving this vision fills my heart with joy, and when the day comes, I intend to express my gratitude through a heartfelt thanksgiving offering to God, acknowledging His guidance and blessings on my journey towards realizing these dreams.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
I recommend the way GiveDirectly has given me the unconditional cash transfer that gives me the autonomy to choose how I can improve my life based on the priority of my own at the time and the same advising me on how I can prioritise the pressing needs. This makes me happy and I feel the organisation should not change anything about the way they operate.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
With $160 of the second unconditional cash from GiveDirectly ,I took the bold step of starting a clothes business in Mdzoloni, a busy market that held promise for the specific clothing niche I wanted to explore. As the sole provider for my three children, life had taken unexpected turns after parting ways with my husband, leading me back to my parents' home. Previously, the unpredictability of casual work, earning a modest $15, left me struggling to provide even the basics. The business, fueled by the cash transfer, now serves as a stable source of income. It not only relieve the burden of risk jobs that affected my health but also ensures I can meet my children's basic needs. I used $260 of the remaining funds to settle my children's school fees debts, heeding their earnest request to prioritize education for their happiness. I instill in them the importance of hard work in school, emphasizing that education is their inheritance and a key to a brighter future where they can support me in return. Gratitude fills my heart for the positive changes these funds have brought to our lives.
 
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($372 USD)
access_time 1 year ago
attach_money
 
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
It was a regular afternoon, just hanging out at my friend's place when a message suddenly popped up on my phone. I couldn't believe my eyes as it was the first transfer from GiveDirectly, right there in my account. I felt a surge of happiness like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders. At that moment, I silently thanked the heavens for bringing GiveDirectly into my life. It was like all my dreams and goals were suddenly within reach. I politely excused myself from my friend's company, rushing home with a heart full of hope and gratitude.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
Life used to be incredibly tough for me. I struggled to make ends meet, working long hours in low-paying casual labor jobs just to put food on the table for my family. But then, something incredible happened that changed our lives forever. I received a cash transfer from GiveDirectly. With that money, I was able to start my own small boutique business, something I had always dreamed of but never had the means to pursue. It wasn't easy, but with determination and hard work, my business began to thrive. Now, I can say that I no longer have to worry about where our next meal will come from. Thanks to GiveDirectly, I have the means to provide for my family, and we are happier and more secure than ever before.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I'm a mother of kids, both in school, and life hasn't always been easy for us. I used to rely on occasional jobs to make ends meet, but that was a tough situation. Receiving the cash transfer from GiveDirectly was a lifeline. First, I used $51 to clear my children's yearly school fees. Education is so important, and I didn't want them to miss out. With $100, I did a big shopping for foodstuff, ensuring that my family wouldn't go to bed hungry anymore. Thereafter, I used $35 to buy a comfortable mattress for my kids. Now, they sleep peacefully and comfortably, unlike before when they struggled on a worn-out mat. Since investment is a factor in a comfortable life, with $150, I took a bold step. I started a small boutique business right in my community. It was a dream I'd always had, and now I had the means to make it happen. It's been a success, and it helps me provide for my family. I also saved some of the cash for our family's future needs. Thanks to GiveDirectly, our lives have taken a turn for the better, and I'm filled with hope and gratitude.
 
Enrolled
access_time 1 year ago
 
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
I am a single mother of three and my first born son is in class eight. Indo casual jobs earning approximately $30 per month which caters for food and school fees only. I have nothing to save and my son will join form one next year. I will save $550 for my son to use as school fees once he joins form one next year. I will also use $500 to start a business in the village. This will help me raise school fees for the children and also have food on the table. My desire is to live a life free from struggles and I am sure my business will sustain me.
What is the happiest part of your day?
I do casual jobs at the nearby quarry earning approximately $30 per month. On March 2023, I got $50 as my salary. I had never received such an amount before. I felt very happy and attended to my family needs.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
I am a single mother of three and I do casual jobs for survival. Paying school fees for my children has really been a challenge to me. My first born who is in standard eight has been missing classes due to lack of school fees. This has affected his performance.