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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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Newsfeed > Annastacia's Profile
Annastacia's family
Annastacia
landscapeCountry:
kenya
workOccupation:
Other
faceAge:
38
workCampaign
Kenya Large Transfer
There will be no further updates from this completed recipient.
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($421 USD)
access_time 1 year ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
In life, one has to have plans to progress and depending on one source of income is not an option. Being a primary school teacher, the payment I receive does not meet all the family's needs but only food and payment of bills. Therefore, in future, I hope to put up an iron-roofed structure and set up hardware using $ 1000 savings. I will be glad that my family of 6 will be financially relieved from the profits and I will not have to take up loans to settle the household needs.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
I appreciate Givedirectly for not involving third parties such as government officials and religious groups in choosing whom to enrol in the community. I love its independence. Also with Givedirectly's transfers, lives have improved in the community as is evident from the houses people have built, children being educated and parents purchasing clothing for their children. However, Givedirectly should not only focus on households but also on setting up projects on education for bright children from humble backgrounds. This way, these children can give to the community once they complete their education.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
My family of 6 depends on my teaching job to earn a living. However, the pay is insufficient as all goes towards household food and payment of bills and there is almost nothing to save. I am glad that Givedirectly has assisted a long way in settling some bills for instance, I have been able to pay $270 school fees for my son in grade 9 through the last transfers. I further saved the rest of the transfers in my bank account so that when schools close, I initiate the projects I left pending since I can not leave them to any other person to manage them the way I want. I am grateful that the transfers have reduced my financial burden as I now feel relaxed.
 
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($442 USD)
access_time 1 year ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I recall overhearing my neighbour coming over to my place to ask if I had also received money from GiveDirectly. I had not checked my phone for a while since I was busy with the house chore, I took the issue seriously and went to check immediately. Upon checking I realised that I had a Mpesa message showing I had received cash from GiveDirectly. This was the most refreshing news I had received in a while. I would be able to realise my goal of rearing my goats. I knew this was an immense blessing hence I was grateful.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The biggest difference now is the fact that I was able to get an extra source of income by initiating a poultry project. I was not able to start it before due to a lack of money, and I am excited that I finally have achieved this dream. I am glad too that I managed to finish buildings the house. I am forever indebted for the amazing gift from GiveDirectly.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
When I was promised that I would receive some cash from the organisation. I knew I would be able to start a poultry project. I solely depend on my teaching job to earn a living. I am married and fortunate to have three children. Upon receipt of the transfer, I allocated $300 to start a poultry project to enhance my finances. I also allocated $180 for completing my house which had been left pending due to financial constraints. Remaining cash I spent to buy Chicken feeds. I have been able to achieve a lot in a short span of period all thanks to GiveDirectly.
 
Enrolled
access_time over 1 year ago
 
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
This will be a chance to be an entrepreneur. I have longed to start a poultry business to boost my current earnings and I am glad it is a few months away. How I pray I get lucky to receive this money. $400 will be enough for a start since I have the land to carry it out. The remaining amount will help complete my house since I was able to put up a balcony but it is not complete. I am worried about my security. Once I complete it I will feel comfortable leaving my assets on my balcony knowing that they are safe.
What is the happiest part of your day?
I feel so happy and at peace living in my house. Not so long ago I used to live in rentals and it was uncomfortable and stressful to live in such small spaces. When I moved in September last year it was a relief, part of my dream achieved. Now I come back from work to my home, despite the distance I have to cover, the fulfillment I have is priceless
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
I have been thinking of starting a poultry business and raising livestock but I am stuck due to financial constraints. I recently spent all I had building my house and now I need to invest in something else, especially with the current economy (times are tough). My mind is fixated on this project and I wish I get the funds to accomplish it.