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 since Give Directly came into my life is that I am now hopeful. The financial support enabled me to buy a few goats. I am hopeful they will make me wealthier within a short period of time considering they reproduce twice a year and the high market demand in my village. The goats will be of great help to me in many ways such as paying school fees for my children. To add on this, when they multiply and mature I will sell some of the offspring to the local and start a business. I am hopeful that I will no longer strain in meeting my family's needs,
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
It was around 4 am when I heard my phone message alert which was so unusual. I decided to check who had sent the message at such an hour and It was my first transfer from GiveDirectly. I felt wow and started planning on how I would utilize the money.
What did you spend your first transfer on?
I spent part of my first transfer on buying some goats and hens. I have been dreaming of raring livestock and poultry for a long period but I lacked resources. I settled in keeping them because of the climatic condition in my village and they require little supervision. I later bought some building poles, iron sheets, timber, and nails purposely for the construction of a new house. The previous one was small and in a poor condition, the roof was grass thatched and leaky. I then bought a bed and a mattress because I used to sleep on the floor with some old mats which were so uncomfortable. I then paid school fees for my children so that they can study without any interference. The remaining amount of money, I bought some sufficient foodstuffs that would take us for a month's time.
Enrolled
access_time over 5 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
Imagine sleeping on an earthen floor for over twenty years with sacks and rags serving as beddings. This situation has brought suffering in my life and I always wish that night never comes. My skin is full of hives which are a result of the constant scratching caused by insect stings. As if this is not enough, maggots feed on my body like I am a corpse. It has always been my desire to get out of this traumatizing state but it is impossible because of insufficient funds. I will therefore purchase beddings to save myself the agony of spending nights on the floor. I will also purchase goats for rearing to generate income.
What is the happiest part of your day?
Spending nights in such an agonizing state is not enjoyable at all. I always pray that the hours move faster to usher in a new day. I am mostly happy at dawn because this time comes as a savior to relieve my pain.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Financial constraint as a result of unstable source of income is my biggest hardship. I burn charcoal to sustain myself but it not enough. Besides the low income, the job is labour intensive and it negatively affects my health. I experience constant body aches but I do not even have money to buy painkillers. Going without food is normal for me and even last night I slept hungry.
