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 ($493 USD)
access_time almost 3 years ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
My life is different than it would have been if I had never received my transfer in that, I was able to acquire more livestock which I will rely on whenever I face any emergency. Also, I was able to get proper medication with my transfer for my sickness which I have been suffering for a long time. Currently, l am well and fully recovered.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
In my opinion, GiveDirectly did well for sending us the cash transfer which has empowered my life. I was able to acquire livestock something that I will be depending on for the rest of my life.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I spent $420 of my second transfer to boost my livestock rearing activities by purchasing 2 dairy cows and 3 goats. This is my reliable source of income which I am depending on whenever I face any financial challenges. I have had this ambition for a long time but I lack the capital to actualize it. The remaining amount assisted me in seeking proper medication since I was sick.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($500 USD)
access_time over 3 years ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
It was around 12noon when I heard the message notification on my mobile phone. When I checked what it was all about, I realized it was an Mpesa message from GiveDirectly. I felt so happy and blessed and even started planning how and when I would use the money.
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 forever mention is the fact that I now own two dairy cows. This is what I have been yearning to own for so many years but I could not afford it. Previously I used to buy milk from my neighbor's and friends which was relatively expensive but now, I am assured of getting milk for free. This will make me healthier since it will be a surplus to my daily meals. Also, I am planning to sell the remaining liters which will earn me lots of money since milk is scarce in my region. I am positive that their will enables me to meet my family's basic needs without any difficulties.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I spent part of my first transfer on buying some livestock such as two dairy cows at a total KES 28000. These have been the well thoughtful assets that I have been longing to own but I could not afford due to the poverty life that had stricken my household. I also cleared school fees arrears for my grandchildren who are both in primary and secondary school. In addition to that, I bought new school uniforms for them to replace the old ones. Also, I bought a new wooden bed to replace the traditional bed that I have been using for all those years. With the remaing amount of money, I am using it in buying sufficient foodstuffs for my family.
Enrolled
access_time over 3 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
Our family being a polygamous set up, my husband could not build a separate house for each wife. He therefore resorted to building a single house with each wife sharing a separate room with her children. This has been my life for decades where I live with my 6 grandchildren in this very small room. This forces 2 of them to seek shelter at our relative's house. Receiving this money therefore means, building a better house for my family. Besides, I will purchase livestock for rearing in order to finance their education.
What is the happiest part of your day?
The happiest part of my day is in the morning when I am sharpening my axe, as I prepare to go to the forest and cut down trees for charcoal burning. I always smile whenever I remember my struggle is because I want to give my grandchildren the best. The thought that one day they will lead a good life through my efforts makes me happy.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
My son died over 15 years ago leaving behind 6 children who were later neglected by their mother. This left them under my care yet I burn charcoal for a living. Life has never been easy because I do not earn enough especially at my old age. The much I get is 300 shillings a week and it cannot meet our needs fully. This makes financial constraint my biggest hardship.
