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 had gone to the farm to plant some cash crops then I saw my helper running towards me with a jovial face. I sensed there was definitely some great news. She later broke the news to me that I had finally been sent the money that I had patiently been waiting for from GiveDirectly. I was overjoyed and felt like a newborn. Due to the excitement that I had, I left the task I was handing and went back celebrating.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The biggest difference in my daily life that I will always mention is the fact that I have livestock in my homestead. Livestock keeping is an investment that my community values the most and it was so unfortunate I couldn't afford to own them because they were very expensive. At least I can rely on them in case of any crisis unlike before. In the few months to come, I will be getting milk for my children and me and also sell the remaining few liters. This will now be my main source of income. With the few goats that I bought, I will start a business of selling the offspring at the local markets and this will be an additional income. In regards to that, I will be able to cater to my family basic needs without much struggle like before.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I spent part of my first transfer on buying livestock such as goats and a dairy cow at a total of KES 48000. I settled in purchasing the two types of domestic animals becasue I had experience in handling them, I was once a cowherd to my neighbor's cows. I also bought a few several pieces of iron sheets to complete roofing my house which I had initially started constructing. With the remaining amount of money, I bought enough foodstuffs for my family.
Enrolled
access_time almost 4 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
Receiving this money means food security and ability to cater for my grandchildren school fees. I'll use 400 dollars to by two pairs of ox-plough so that I can till a larger piece of land for improved productivity. Additionally I will use 250 dollars to cater for my grandchildren school fees.
What is the happiest part of your day?
My happiest part of the day is in the evening. This is because I get time to rest after the day long activities.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
The biggest hardship I have faced in my life is food insecurity. I have been unable to sustain a steady supply of food to my family.