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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2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
53150 KES ($468 USD)
access_time over 2 years ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
Yes, I developed a new goal which was to buy goats. It has been my wish to have them in the compound but because of insufficient funds, I couldn't afford them. I was hoping that they would be of help, especially in paying fees for my children and also sorting my household bills. I am optimistic that I will have them soon.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
In my opinion, GiveDirectly did a splendid job in my entire village. The fact that the money was sent directly into our Mpesa accounts stood out the most. Also, we were able to choose what to purchase this is because everyone has his or her own needs in her household. I don't think there is any sector GiveDirectly needs to improve.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I spent a huge portion of my second transfer on clearing school fees arrears of KES 30000. This was for my four children who are in college and secondary schools respectively. I was so worried about how I will be able to clear the arrears since I am a widow who relies on unstable jobs. Also, I bought fourteen pieces of iron sheets and nails KES 20000. I had intended to construct a new house since the previous one was not in good condition. It was even about to collapse and I had to store my valuable assets in my neighbor's houses which were quite embarrassing. It was a sad experience that I do not wish anyone to go through at all. I am now a happy mother because I will finally be able to shelter all my five children under one roof. With the remaining amount of money, I bought foodstuffs for my family.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($489 USD)
access_time almost 3 years ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
As I was on my way to the water point to fetch some water, I received a message in my phone. Despite being unable to read and write, I mastered the M-pesa messages and I know how to interpret them. The only difficult scenario is to know the sender but I know how to interpret the money received and the balance. So when I received this message I saw the amount of KES 55000.00, in this case I knew it was from GiveDirectly because we were informed of the first transfer that was to be sent. I was very excited and I almost returned home only that the distance I had covered was longer than where I was going. I was energized and hasten my pace regardless of the fact that we had slept without food the previous night.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
Initially my sons who are in secondary school were having a very tough time at school in terms of access to meals. For one to be served some meal they were supposed to produce a meal card, a document that was being issued only to the students with nil fees balance. This made life difficult for my boys, something that was giving me sleepless nights. But after getting the transfer, they were the first priority and now they are comfortable in school.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
My two secondary school children were at the verge of being sent back home from school due to school fees. Therefore, I sent KES 30000.00 to their school accounts so that they can comfortable undertake their studies. I also took paid KES 5000.00 for my daughter who is at a vocational training institute. Having settled the school issues, I bought some foodstuff for the family and the remaining amount; I am planning to buy some goats during the rainy season.
Enrolled
access_time 3 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
Receiving this money means improved security to my household which is surviving in a house that is just braving the strong wind of our area. I have always been worried that it can collapse anytime but since I lack the money to repair or construct a decent one, I am forced to live in it. Despite my struggle to construct another superstructure, I have failed to do the roofing and since I am now promised to get this cash grant, I intend to spend utmost 35000 KES to complete it. This will keep my family of 6 more safe and hence a happy life. On the other hand, I will spend 30000 KES to support my children's education and the remaining amount will help me to purchase 6 goats that will act as my store of wealth for future use since they multiply fast.
What is the happiest part of your day?
I spend a better part of my day doing my charcoal work. At this time, I usually miss my children who by then have gone to school. In the evening when they are back at home, I feel so excited to see them around me since their talks and laughter are the sources of my motivation. Hence, I consider the evening as the happiest part of my day.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
I am a widow and the sole breadwinner for my family of 6. The only source of income that I have ever depend on is charcoal vending, a job that usually earns me 3000 KES per month. Imagine this little earning to be shared among the very basic needs like food, school fees, and clothing, it has never been enough. This has forced us to live a desperate life and I always feel ashamed in the village especially when I lack food for my children. Therefore, financial instability has been the biggest hardship that I have ever faced in my life.
