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.
How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
In the upcoming year, my primary objective is to expand my farm, a step that I believe will significantly contribute to meeting the educational needs of my children. Utilizing the funds saved from my previous ventures, I am optimistic about the positive impact this expansion will have on my family's financial stability and, in turn, ensure that my children's school fees are readily covered. I understand the importance of education, and this goal is a testament to my commitment to providing the best opportunities for my children's academic growth and future success.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
The unconditional support we received has been a transformative force in our lives, ensuring not only a consistent supply of food on our table but also enabling our children to continue their education. This form of support has granted us financial freedom, allowing us to meet essential needs and providing a stable foundation for our family's well-being. The positive impact of this assistance goes beyond immediate relief; it opens doors to long-term opportunities and a brighter future for us and our children. We are profoundly grateful for the positive changes it has brought into our lives.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
As a widow sustaining my livelihood through farming, the financial support from GiveDirectly has made a significant impact on my life. Residing with my youngest daughter, who is still pursuing her education, I carefully deliberated on how to utilize the transfer for our betterment. Prioritizing my daughter's education, I saved $364 a portion of the funds to ensure she has the necessary school fees once schools reopen. Additionally, I invested in essential household items, purchasing a water drum for $20 and a blanket for $80. Recognizing the importance of supporting my daughter at the university, I sent her $80. The remaining $28 was wisely spent on securing our daily food needs. I am filled with happiness and relief, knowing that the funds have not only addressed our immediate necessities but have also secured the education of my daughter for the upcoming school term.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
20000 KES ($139 USD)
access_time over 1 year ago
attach_money
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I remember the exact moment I received my transfer; I was out working on the farm, engrossed in the day's tasks, when suddenly, my phone rang. Glancing at it, I discovered that GiveDirectly had sent me money. A rush of joy and happiness flooded over me, as I realized that GiveDirectly had come through for me when I needed it the most. It's hard to put into words just how elated and thankful I felt. I knew that, at last, I would be able to pursue my goals with newfound ease, and that realization filled me with gratitude.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The biggest difference in my day to day life is that , I effectively fenced my land, enabling uninterrupted plowing without the disruptions caused by my goats and hens. Without the financial aid I received, achieving this task would have been considerably challenging. I express genuine gratitude for the support that has substantially improved my quality of life, bringing abundant happiness and a sense of fulfillment to our family.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I am a widow and a mother of five children, and my livelihood hinges on farming. Raising my children single-handedly has been challenging, primarily due to the unpredictable nature of my work and the fact that farming's success relies heavily on weather patterns. Upon receiving my initial transfer, I made the decision to invest in fencing my plot of land, which would allow me to focus more on farming and prevent animals from encroaching on my crops. I spent $100 towards the purchase of a chain link for this purpose. Subsequently, I spent $70 on essential food supplies and set aside $30 as an emergency fund. These tasks were difficult to accomplish previously due to financial limitations. The cash transfer has brought a sense of happiness and gratitude, as it has significantly transformed my life for the better.
Enrolled
access_time over 1 year ago
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
I am faced with numerous challenges that are unsurmountable. I am glad that GiveDirectly's help is in the offing to lessen the pain and anguish that we experience every day, what a good time to be alive! Never in my life have I received the help of this magnitude. I am certain that life will change from worse to good. I have been having trouble fencing my farm and many times my crops have been destroyed by goats which have resulted in losses. I have always wanted to fence around my farm but it has not been possible because of lack of money. It is for this reason that I intend to use $150 to purchase chain links for fencing around the farm. I will use the rest of the money to buy pipes for irrigation and to purchase foodstuffs.
What is the happiest part of your day?
Last week we received a heavy downpour and it brought joy and hope to us. Our crops were on the verge of wilting, it needed the rain for their proper growth and development and subsequent productivity. After the rains, the crops have significantly changed for good and we expect to get a good harvest sometime in the next few months.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Life has been a challenge indeed. I am left alone to fend for my children since my husband passed on some time ago. It is a life of uncertainty and we only depend on God. Food insecurity is a major issue that is disturbing us a great deal, this has been occasioned by the depressed rainy season and as a result, the food crops that we had planted dried up because of adverse heat. We have been forced to buy at high prices that we sometimes cannot afford. It seems to get even worse as the cost of a 90 Kg bag of maize that used to retail at $36 goes for $70 at the moment, almost double the initial price. It breaks my heart a lot when I am not able to provide food for my children yet they look up to me.