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?
It was around 6 am, I had woken up very early to go to fetch water at our nearby water pan for my family. I received the message alert of my transfer when I was on my way back home carrying 20 liters of water on the head. Being illiterate, I had to wait until when I reached home for my helper to confirm the message on my phone. I was very happy when learned that I had received the transfer. I was sure that I would be able to accomplish most of the goals that I had.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
Being able to own proper bedding after purchasing modern ones with the transfer is the biggest difference in my life. Currently, I can now comfortably enjoy my nights on new bedding like others. Furthermore, I am very grateful that I was able to renovate my house and no longer have to worry whenever there is rains in the village.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
For a very long time I had desired to own proper beddings for my family. After receiving the transfer, I spent KES 10,000 to purchase a modern bed and mattress. Previously, I was sleeping on a traditional bed that was not comfortable which result into severe body pains on my body every morning. In addition, I bought one goat for KES 3500 an investment for my future. Similarly, I used KES 20,000 to repair my house which was filled with water during the rain season. The
remaining amount assisted me to acquire food for the family.
Enrolled
access_time over 2 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
I am a widow, my husband died long time ago. I was diagnosed with chest problems and the doctor's recommendations was that I detest from manual work. This has left with to rely on other people for food and other needs. I will use my transfers to purchase 5 goats at 3000 KES. This will be my future investment, the rest of the funds will cater for my daily needs such as food. I will also support my two grandchildren who are still schooling for the betterment of their future.
What is the happiest part of your day?
I am grateful for the peace and cohesiveness in my family. I could not afford to give my children good education due to shortage of funds but I am appreciative that they once in while support me with the little they earn from their manual jobs.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
I used to work in digging water pans to collect water for the community as we rely heavily on water pan as a source of water. Since I became sick, (which I suspect the kind of work I used to do was the source of my illness) I have can no longer fend for myself and this the major challenge I am currently experiencing.
