GDLive Newsfeed
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.
Stages:
 
Enrollment
attach_money
 
Transfers
check
Completed
Newsfeed > Kenga's Profile
Kenga's family
Kenga
landscapeCountry:
kenya
workOccupation:
Small business
faceAge:
59
workCampaign
Kenya Large Transfer
There will be no further updates from this completed recipient.
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($344 USD)
access_time 9 months ago
check
 
How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
My aspirations revolve around the continual expansion of my goat-selling business. Engaged in the practice of purchasing goats from the villages and subsequently selling them at marketplaces during market days, this venture has proven highly profitable. With the additional capital from recent transfers, I have augmented my investment, anticipating a corresponding increase in profits. The financial gains not only contribute to the well-being of my family but also facilitate the ongoing growth of the business through strategic reinvestment. As the primary breadwinner for my family i.e. my wife and two children, this business serves as our sole source of income. Witnessing the gratifying growth of my enterprise is particularly fulfilling, knowing that it not only sustains my family but also holds the potential for further expansion and success.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
GiveDirectly has been incredibly impactful, significantly aiding me in completing my house and expanding my business. Without their assistance, I would still be struggling with the challenges of completing my home and wouldn't have had the means to grow my business. I hope that GiveDirectly remains steadfast in its current approach, consistently providing cash support to individuals in need. My wish is for them to continue their invaluable work without any changes, positively impacting the lives of many.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Upon receiving the funds, I allocated $150 towards completing the construction of my long-pending house, fulfilling a longstanding aspiration. Simultaneously, recognizing the need to provide a constructive path for my son, who had struggled academically after completing secondary school, I invested an additional $150 from the received amount to enroll him in a technical college. This decision aimed to equip him with masonry skills for a promising future. Diversifying my financial endeavors, I allocated $250 from the transfer to expand my goat-selling business. This strategic investment resulted in a significant increase in my livestock, proving particularly advantageous during the festive season. The markets were bustling with eager buyers, leading to a successful period for my business. Witnessing the thriving success of my venture not only brought a sense of accomplishment but also provided a stable income that is currently sustaining my family.
 
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($372 USD)
access_time 1 year ago
attach_money
 
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I was in the middle of an education meeting when I got the notification on my phone, and I couldn't help but sneak a peek. The moment I saw that message, my heart soared with joy. I had to hold back my excitement because I was surrounded by a crowd, but inside, I was bursting with happiness. This transfer wasn't just money; it was a lifeline, a chance to finally improve the dire condition of my house. It felt like a ray of hope breaking through the clouds of uncertainty, and I couldn't wait to put it to good use. It was a small step, but it meant the world to me.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
Life used to be a constant struggle. I was running an animal vending business, but the money I earned barely covered our basic needs, let alone the dream of building a secure house for my family. So, I made the tough choice to invest everything I had into sending my five children to school, hoping it would create a brighter future. Then, like a ray of sunshine on a stormy day, GiveDirectly entered our lives. The cash transfer they provided was a lifeline. With it, I finally had the means to build a safe and comfortable home for my family. It's hard to put into words how much this has changed our lives. We will no longer worry about the rain leaking through the roof or the cold wind chilling our nights. My children will study comfortably now, and I will sleep peacefully, knowing they have a secure home. GiveDirectly didn't just give us money; they gave us hope, dignity, and a chance at a better life. For that, we are eternally grateful.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I used to live in a house made of grass, and whenever it rained or the wind blew strongly, it was terrible. I worried about my family's safety and comfort, especially during the unpredictable weather changes. When I received the cash transfer from GiveDirectly, I decided to invest in a better, more secure house. I used $300 to buy 20 pieces of iron sheets, along with nails and binding wire. These materials would form the roof of our new house, which would protect us from the rain and harsh sun. I also purchased roofing timbers for $127 to complete the structure. With the remaining amount, I hired a skilled contractor who would help build our new home. Thanks to GiveDirectly, I'm filled with joy and relief because soon my family and I will have a safe and comfortable house. I am immensely grateful for this opportunity to improve our living conditions, and it's all thanks to GiveDirectly's support.
 
Enrolled
access_time 1 year ago
 
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
I have a family of nine members and we all live in a one room house with a grass roof. The house lacks privacy and it leaks during rain season. The house is small such that three of my children seek shelter from neighbors. This lowers my dignity in the community. I do casual jobs earning approximately $100 per month which caters for food and school fees. I lack the capacity to build a spacious house for the family. I will use $700 to build a three room house which will be spacious enough to accommodate the whole family. I will use $400 to buy ten goats as an investment. This will help me raise school fees for my two sons who will join secondary school two years from now.
What is the happiest part of your day?
I have been struggling feeding my family with the little income I get. On April 2023, we received rain in our community and I planted maize on my three piece of land and got harvest that will sustain the family for at least five months. The harvest brought happiness to me.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Lack of reliable source of income is the challenge I am currently facing. I do casual jobs earning approximately $100 per month which caters for food and school fees online. This has made me live in a house that has grass roof and I lack the capacity to build a spacious one.