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 was around noon when I was from church when my phone started ringing. That was an indication that there was a new message. I kept calm and rushed home because I had to seek assistance since I am illiterate. After my elder son checked, he realized that I had received my first KES 55000 from GiveDirectly. I was so excited and thanked God for answering my prayer on time. I finally knew that I would own the dairy cows that I have been longing to purchase.
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 be proud of is the fact that I now have two dairy cows. It has been my wish to purchase them for so many years but I could not afford them. I, however, opted for them because I will be getting plenty of liters of milk which will be for my family's consumption and the remaining liters will be for commercial purposes. For now, I do not have any dependable source I only rely on my elder son. This is after the death of my spouse many years ago. At times, my son could not afford to provide for my basic needs because he also had a family to cater to. It is a relief to me and for my entire family because I will no longer ask for help from my son but rather the profits that I will be earning from the milk business will cater to all my needs.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I spent part of my first transfer on buying two dairy cows at KES 30000. I have desired to have them for decades but all was in vain because I did not have the needed cash to purchase even one. I am now so happy because I knew I would benefit a lot through them. I settled for them because they can survive so well in my region. Also, I cleared college fees for my son KES 20000 and I am happy he will be able to sit for his final exams. I was so worried that he might end up missing the tests which would force him not to graduate. With the remaining amount of money, I bought foodstuffs for my family and other items like furniture and decent clothing.
Enrolled
access_time almost 3 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
We have water shortage in this area mainly contributed by prolonged drought. The water source is at a distance of 15minutes walk. I struggle to walk as my knee joint aches after strolling for a short distance. There is piped water running within my compound but I have not been able to trap due to lack of money. It is with great pleasure that upon receiving this cash, I will stand a chance to install a water tap. I will spend 20 000 KES on this matter. Selling water will as well help me economically.
What is the happiest part of your day?
I could not stop smiling when I heard GiveDirectly is coming to our village. My joy was fulfilled when I attended the community sensitization and confirmed that indeed we were going to be visited. Receiving the GiveDirectly officers in my compound has just made my day.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
I happen to bring forth five children. All resolved to migrate to town with their families. Being left alone has subjected me into tiresome errands including fetching water, looking for firewood, cooking and washing clothes.I struggle a lot in doing these errands since am of age. I requested to get a house help but since none of my children is financial stable, no one has done it. Too much work has led my leg joints frequently pain making me unable to walk.
