GDLive Newsfeed
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.
Stages:
 
Enrollment
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Transfers
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Completed
Newsfeed > Melvin's Profile
Melvin's family
Melvin
landscapeCountry:
kenya
workOccupation:
Casual labor
faceAge:
22
workCampaign
Kenya Large Transfer
Upcoming Stage
Next Payment
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Follow to be updated on Melvin's next check-in.
 
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
20000 KES ($155 USD)
access_time 2 months ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I was at home with my kids when I was scrolling through my phone and saw a message pop up. Upon checking it, I saw that GiveDirectly had sent me $200. I felt grateful and happy for their support. The first thought that came to my mind was to buy construction materials so I could build a new house, as my current one is old and in need of repair.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The biggest difference in my life is the improvement in my living conditions and my family's well-being. Before receiving the cash from GiveDirectly, I lived in an old traditional manyatta with a leaking roof that put my family at risk, especially during the heavy rains. Water entering the house caused us a lot of discomfort and worry. By buying construction materials and cover labor costs, I was able to fix the roof and protect my home from further damage. Now, I can sleep peacefully without the fear of leaks, which has greatly improved our quality of life. Additionally, spending the remaining money on food has ensured that my children have enough to eat. This support has made a significant difference in our daily lives, allowing us to live with dignity and security.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Upon receiving $200 from GiveDirectly, I had already planned what to do. I lived in an old traditional manyatta that had a leaking roof, and with the heavy rains we experienced this year, it was risky. Water was getting into the house, causing a lot of discomfort. Because of this, I decided to use $190 to buy construction materials like iron sheets and frames, which also covered the labor for the construction. This investment helped me mitigate the threat of having my house swept away, allowing me to live and sleep in dignity without the fear of a leaking roof. I spent the remaining money on food to ensure my children would not go without meals now that I received this support.
 
Enrolled
access_time 4 months ago
 
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
Receiving this money means my life will change for the better. I depend on casual jobs to make ends meet and I cannot save any amount for future use. I plan on upgrading my house from mud one to a iron sheets and also purchase household items like bed,mattress and beddings to ensure my children sleep comfortably. I will also invest in goat keeping by purchasing six goats to secure my future financially. I am happy because my life will be better and I am grateful to Givedirectly.
What is the happiest part of your day?
Five months ago I was blessed with a baby girl and she has brought so much joy in my life. I am thankful to God for giving us good health and protection.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Financial constraints are the greatest challenge. I am a single mother and raising my children has been an uphill task since I depend on casual jobs. I have a differently abled child and a young one hence going a whole day for work is not possible because they require my attention. Sometimes I have to stay home to look after them forcing me to borrow from neighbors.