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.
There will be no further updates from this completed recipient.
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($542 USD)
access_time 4 years ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
Its been a struggle for me to take care of my family's need with a meager income that can barely support my family's members needs fully which includes selling charcoal that I burn myself after my husband was imprisoned. Seeing my children attending school consistently like the rest of their classmates is the happiest thing and a difference in my life .This is because I could feel pain and shame of my children staying for weeks at home while I look for school fees before and truly it was very traumatizing. Thanks GiveDirectly for this opportunity.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
In my opinion, GiveDircetly did well through giving money that had no conditions that transformed our lives to a better status . I do not see what GiveDirectly failed in at its operations.
What did you spend your second transfer on?
I spent my second transfer to buy building materials such as iron sheets , timbers , nails and now that I have acquired the required building materials, therefore, I am certain of building a decent spacious two bedroom house which I have always desired. The remaining amount I have saved in order to pay the labors who shall facilitate the construction of this new house and buy a mattress for my children as well.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($532 USD)
access_time over 4 years ago
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Describe the biggest difference in your daily life.
Before GiveDirectly came to us, my children used to seek shelter in the neighborhood at night and I was not at peace over this situation . Currently, Seeing my children having a decent shelter is the biggest difference in my daily life. When I received the money, I purchased enough buildings materials which include pieces of iron sheets and building poles and I am almost completing the construction of a decent house for them. They will no longer be troubled again, which gives me slot of peace.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I received a message notification very early in the morning. I was curious to know who could have sent me a message at that time. However, when I checked, it was an mpesa message. My first transfer had finally been sent. I felt happy and thanked God for the fortune from GiveDirectly.
What did you spend your first transfer on?
The house that I am currently sheltering in is small and cannot accommodate my children. They have to seek shelter elsewhere in the neighborhood and I wasn't at peace with this situation. Thus when I received the money, I spent KES 15000 to purchase some iron sheets and building poles to construct a house for them. Apart from this, I am also buying foodstuffs that can take us quite a longer period, because even providing for my family with a good diet was a struggle to me.I am now able to pay for my household expenses without much struggle. I am also planning to buy some goats to keep in my homestead.
Enrolled
access_time over 4 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
Considering that education is a key for a better life, my desire has been to invest fully in my three children's education. Receiving this money means quality education for my children and therefore, I will prioritize clearing their fee arrears. The remaining amount will support me to buy goats at least four for each child. This will serve as a long-term investment for their education and hence a better future.
What is the happiest part of your day?
Waking up happy and healthy with my family gives me peace of mind. In the morning I am usually energetic and refreshed for the day. Hence, I consider it to be the happiest part of my day.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
It has been two years now since my husband jailed due to driving insurance issues. This has subjected me to a harsh life of taking care of my four children with three in school. Considering that I am a housewife, the only hope is on charcoal burning in order to provide for my family's basic needs. Therefore, I consider the lack of a reliable source of income as my biggest hardship.
