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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.
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Enrollment
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Transfers
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Completed
Newsfeed > Jumwa's Profile
Jumwa's family
Jumwa
landscapeCountry:
kenya
workOccupation:
Small business
faceAge:
50
workCampaign
Kenya Large Transfer
There will be no further updates from this completed recipient.
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($379 USD)
access_time 7 months ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
Currently, my most cherished aspiration revolves around securing my children's educational journey. As my primary source of income remains uncertain, I've set my heart on channeling whatever resources I can muster into shaping a brighter future for them. Through the humble earnings of my casual jobs, I diligently set aside fragments of funds, nurturing my unwavering commitment. With each coin saved, I can almost visualize the textbooks they'll hold, the classrooms they'll inhabit, and the doors of opportunity that education will swing open for them. And so, every saved amount is a step closer to their success, a tangible testament to a parent's determination to carve pathways of enlightenment, even in the face of financial uncertainty.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
Experiencing the transformative impact of GiveDirectly's financial assistance firsthand has left an indelible mark on my heart and perspective. Its unwavering commitment to providing direct aid with no strings attached has not only alleviated our immediate financial burdens as a community but has also rekindled hope within us. Witnessing the organization's dedication to transparency, efficiency, and genuine care for us has inspired a newfound sense of unity among us. The organization's outstanding work has inspired us all to support and promote its mission so that more lives can be positively affected. We hail GiveDirectly on a job well done and will forever cherish the difference it has made in our lives.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Receiving that cash from GiveDirectly was like a turning point in my life. I had four kids struggling in school due to fee arrears, but with $110 of the second transfer, I managed to clear their debts. The relief in their eyes was priceless, and it felt like a weight lifted off my shoulders. Thereafter, I decided to invest in my comfort. I spent $100 on a proper bed and mattress, something I had never dreamed of owning. No more nights on that old, uncomfortable traditional bed; now I sleep like a baby, ready to face each day. With $140, I took a chance on a new venture by buying four goats as an investment to secure a better future for my family. Those goats became my pride, a living investment that promised a brighter tomorrow. As for the rest of the money, I used it wisely. I built a granary to safeguard the yields of my toil on the farm. No more worries about pests or spoilage ruining my harvests. Thanks to GiveDirectly, my life has taken a new course, full of hope and possibilities.
 
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($394 USD)
access_time 10 months ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
While I was planting my crops, I received a text message on my phone. Because I could not understand the messages on my phone, I called my helper, who checked for me and confirmed that I had received my first transfer. I was overjoyed because I could finally finish roofing my house, which had been stalled for months due to a lack of funds. I was now able to purchase the iron sheets and, most importantly, live in a decent house, which was my greatest need.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
I was finally able to purchase iron sheets and finish building my house. It had been stalled for a long time because I lacked the funds to complete the project. The roof top was simply covered with a canvas material that could not withstand the recent heavy rains. Because I did not have enough money to buy the remaining materials, I had to endure the cold and harsh weather. I am greatly relieved and at peace now that I have purchased enough iron sheets and finished my house, which has made the greatest difference in my daily life. I am grateful to GiveDirectly because it would have taken me months to save enough money to accomplish this.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I received the transfer after starting to cultivate my farm because there has been enough rain. After experiencing a persistent drought that made farming impossible for several years, I was faced with the challenge of food scarcity in my household. I had to buy food on a daily basis, which was very expensive, especially since I do not have a source of income that would allow me to easily provide for my family. I had been relying on farming to ensure that food was available in my household after a successful harvest. When I received the transfer, I spent KES 15000 and hired labourers to work on my farm, with the goal of maximizing my farm's utilization for increased harvest. This will solve the problem of food scarcity, and I will no longer have to spend money on food. Furthermore, I spent KES 30000 on iron sheets, a solar panel, and a new front door for my home. My primary need prior to enrolling in the program was iron sheets and doors to finish the construction of my living house. It had been stalled for several months because I could not afford to buy the remaining materials. I spent the remaining funds on foodstuffs, ensuring that my family would not go hungry in my home. I also went shopping for utensils and other household items that I was missing.
 
Enrolled
access_time 1 year ago
 
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
I have been living in a three-room house that has no roof for the past year now. The family spends sleepless nights during the rainy season. The nature of my house has caused me to suffer from hypertension even more. I have a family of six members. My husband does casual jobs earning $60 per month. I rarely work due to the hypertension-healthy condition that has affected me for the last year now. I will use $500 to buy 50 pieces of iron sheets, $200 for labor, and $100 to buy other building materials for the house. I will also use $200 to buy food for the family .
What is the happiest part of your day?
During the whole of January 2023, my health condition improved. I was able to make charcoal and got $100 from the sale of the charcoal. I felt very happy getting money for my hard work.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
I have suffered from hypertension for one year now. I cannot involve myself in hard activities like charcoal burning. This has affected me economically.