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 biggest difference in your daily life.
The biggest difference in my daily life is that I now own a permanent house. I have been longing to construct a big and a decent house but due to my financial status, I could not afford it. My previous house was a small hut which is grass thatched and very small. Whenever it rained it was hectic because of the leaking roof. My children never had peace especially when they wanted to sleep. They were forced to sleep at my neighbor's house of which they were uncomfortable. But ever since I constructed this house, the problem is solved. They can now study at night without any interference. Previously it was affecting their academic performance.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I remember vividly well it was around 2 am when I saw the notification from my mobile phone. When I checked it's content, I realized it was an Mpesa message from GiveDirectly informing that I have received my first transfer. I was so glad because I did not believe it would happen at the time of enrollment.
What did you spend your first transfer on?
I spent part of my first transfer on buying twenty pieces of iron sheets, timber and nails to renovate my house. My previous house was small and in a critical condition, almost falling down. Apart from that, I bought an ox as my asset since I am a farmer I have been longing to own it. But due to my poverty life, I could not afford it. I then bought enough foodstuffs for my family that would last a month since we have not been harvesting for a while due to the long droughts.
Enrolled
access_time over 5 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
Receiving this money means an opportunity to repair our house so that my co-wife can move back in with me. Her room was destroyed by the recent rainfall we experienced and she had to move into her son's house which is considered taboo in my community. We also plan to invest in livestock which can sell to meet our basic needs of food and medication when need arises. Lastly, we plan to buy mattresses for our beds so that we can sleep comfortably avoiding back pains that can hinder us from engaging in our daily activities.
What is the happiest part of your day?
The happiest part of my day is in the night when we all get to sleep and rest. This is because in the afternoon, I constantly have to keep watch of my co-wife who is mentally challenged and ensure she does not get into any trouble.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Our biggest hardship is inadequate financial resources to meet our daily needs such as food and water. After our husband passed away, meeting these needs became a challenge because he was the sole breadwinner. Since am old, I cannot engage in any strenuous activity and despite my co-wife being younger, she is mentally challenged and does not contribute much too. Our greatest hope is her son who does odd jobs in Mombasa town so that he can cater for us.
