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.
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3rd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($294 USD)
access_time 12 months 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, my goal is to construct a secure chicken coop to provide a safe haven for my chickens and chicks when I am not at home. I have encountered numerous challenges, such as theft and attacks by stray dogs and other animals in the surrounding bushes. The chicken coop is crucial for ensuring the safety of my poultry, especially on Sundays when I attend church and the chickens won't be free-ranging. This initiative aims to mitigate the risks posed by external threats, creating a protected environment for my chickens and enhancing their overall well-being.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
GiveDirectly is making a significant impact in our villages, and we have much to testify regarding the support received. The uniqueness of the cash transfer has been extraordinary, marking the first time in my life I received such a substantial amount of money without the expectation of repayment. Although I initially thought it might be too good to be true, I was glad to ask numerous questions for clarification, and GiveDirectly provided detailed responses. Unfortunately, the criteria used at some point left out individuals whom we all thought deserved and are still praying and hoping for a revisit, aspiring to transform their households as well.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Upon receiving the third transfer, I had plans address various needs. I invested in a long-term plan by purchasing three goats for $150, contributing to a future source of income through their offspring. To ensure ample food for my household of two, I spent $50 on essentials like a sack of maize, a carton of milk, cooking oil, sugar, and tea leaves. Despite my children having moved out to start their own families, I continued to support my grandchildren's education by paying $60 in school fees, recognizing the importance of providing them with uninterrupted study time. Additionally, I spent $30 to enhance my wardrobe, acquiring a dress, sweater, and a bag. I also secured my compound against livestock invasion,by spending $186 on poles, barbed wire, and chainlinks. The overall expenditure also included $11 for transportation and labor charges during trips to the shopping center and $30 for household goods, that included utensils and toiletries. I am grateful for the generous support by GiveDirectly that has brought a lot of transformation to my family.
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($308 USD)
access_time 1 year ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
My foremost goals in the coming years are to secure my land with fencing and ensure we have an ample supply of food. I plan to utilize my third transfer to make this happen. The support we've received from GiveDirectly has been of immense help, and I can't emphasize enough how thankful I am for the positive impact it has made in our lives.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
The assistance provided by GiveDirectly has brought about a remarkable and positive impact on our quality of life, leading to a transformative change. What stood out most to me about the program was the unrestricted nature of the transfer, enabling us to use the funds according to our own needs and priorities. I have no doubts or concerns regarding any aspect of the program's execution or its credibility.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
When I learned that GiveDirectly would be providing funds, I immediately recognized it as the most beneficial investment for my family and myself. Currently, my husband is hospitalized in Kabarnet, and I have taken on the responsibility of supporting myself and my two grandchildren, both of whom are attending school. My livelihood depends on farming and goat rearing, which makes ends meet. Given our circumstances, I made the decision to prioritize the purchase of essential foodstuffs worth $183. Additionally, I invested $90 in acquiring goats. Finally, I spent the remaining amount to purchase clothing and other household items, which had been out of reach due to financial constraints. I am overwhelmed with joy and gratitude for the assistance, which has significantly improved our living conditions within a short period.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
20000 KES ($141 USD)
access_time over 1 year ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
Around 2:00 p.m, I received a message that I didn't immediately check, as I wasn't expecting any significant news that day. Within my homestead, I could hear my neighbors conversing loudly and with excitement. Curiosity prompted me to walk towards their direction when I picked up my phone and saw a message on the screen that was clearly from the service provider. To my astonishment, it contained wonderful news of the first transfer being successfully deposited into my account. Overwhelmed with gratitude, I returned to my seat, thanking God for the provision and expressing my appreciation to GiveDirectly for fulfilling their promise.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
Receiving the first payment has brought about a significant change in my daily routine. The most noticeable transformation is in terms of the food situation at home. Previously, due to limited funds, I used to purchase small quantities of food and make frequent trips to the market. However, now I have the ability to buy larger quantities and ensure a steady availability of food. Additionally, I am prepared to build a fence and shelter for goats, which will serve the dual purpose of restricting their movement and protecting them from encroaching on farmland.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Upon receiving the initial payment, I immediately prioritized controlling the movement of my livestock, particularly the goats. With great enthusiasm, I invested $100 in purchasing chain links, which I utilized to construct a protective shelter and fence around my small farm. This measure effectively curbs the goats' haphazard movements, which previously resulted in crop damage. Furthermore, I allocated $20 to buy new clothing, including a pair of shoes. Additionally, I set aside $75 to procure essential food items such as milk, maize, and sugar to sustain my family of four. Given my spouse's chronic illness and the need for extensive care, our eldest son took them to their home closer to the hospital, ensuring easy access to medical assistance. Finally, I utilized the remaining funds to acquire various household goods.
Enrolled
access_time over 1 year ago
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
We have been inflicted by pain and suffering, we have known no peace since we have depleted all the resources we had for treatment and it has left us with misery and untold suffering, we have been rendered poor. The world seems more sinister and day after day I am stared by its acute unfairness. I wrestle with hopelessness and I have been shown the precariousness of everything. To me, life has no meaning. I never knew that there are people or organizations left to assist and remember us in the situation we are in. It is unbelievable that the transfers from GiveDirectly are in the offing. It is going to give us a reprieve. We intend to use $ 400 for my husband's treatment and use the rest to purchase at least 5 goats for keep since we sold all that we had.We will also help ourselves with purchase of some foodstuff.
What is the happiest part of your day?
In February I was so sick and bedridden, I could not walk at all, I was being supported, but I could not even feed myself, I was just like a baby. I had undergone depression, I was accused by someone that I am a witch which triggered my sickness. I underwent treatment at Marigat Hospital and after a month I felt better. I was so happy to be back on my feet and to lead a normal life. I was afraid I almost die, I never knew that I could ever regain my good health. I am glad that my health is now good although it worries me that my husband's health became worse when I got better.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
My husband has been ill and indisposed for some time now, he is suffering from diabetes. His health has deteriorated as a result of being wasted by the disease. He cannot not even take care of himself, he is being supported because his body is weak. We have sold all the goats we had to raise funds for his medication. He is currently in Kabarnet Hospital undergoing treatment, he has suffered and undergone a lot of pain. It bothers me greatly, I pray that he got healed soon and come home.