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
attach_money
 
Transfers
check
Completed
Newsfeed > Mercy's Profile
Mercy's family
Mercy
landscapeCountry:
kenya
workOccupation:
Casual labor
faceAge:
18
workCampaign
Kenya Large Transfer
There will be no further updates from this completed recipient.
3rd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($311 USD)
access_time 8 months ago
check
 
How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
Having jointly invested significantly in farming, depleting the entirety of our final transfer and setting aside considerations for a house and other pivotal ventures, our primary goal for the upcoming year and beyond is to commence the construction of a new residence tailored for our family of three. Our present house, small and old, stands to be replaced by a more spacious and modern structure immediately following the completion of this season's thriving tomato harvest. Furthermore, we hope to expand our existing herd of goats to bolster milk production, an endeavor that has historically incurred substantial costs; the offspring from these additions will serve as a financial buffer for forthcoming undertakings, unforeseen emergencies, and routine household expenses.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
GiveDirectly has truly made a significant positive impact on our lives, which we deeply appreciate. The organization's commitment to assisting individuals was evident through their thorough approach of visiting every household in the village, ensuring that each member received equal attention and support. The provision of unconditional cash support has proven to be an exceptional approach that other organizations should consider adopting. This approach empowered us to make informed decisions about our spending and cultivate a sense of gratitude for the outcomes we achieve despite the challenges we encounter, as they are a result of our choices. It is worth noting that all the promises made during the enrollment process were fulfilled, and I hope that this same level of dedication and support can be extended to other underserved communities in need.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
While juggling various considerations upon receiving the previous three transfers, I also recognized the importance of effective prioritization to ensure that essential projects took precedence. Adhering to this principle, I dedicated the most recent transfer towards agricultural pursuits, initially allocating $35 to prepare an acre of land, and subsequently investing in seedlings for tomato farming valued at $350 once the land was ready. I additionally absorbed a transportation expense of $30 to bring the seedlings from a source in Naivasha. Presently, I am pleased to note that the remaining funds have been pivotal for on-field management tasks such as spraying, topdressing, and irrigation, often involving water pumping. While this choice meant temporarily setting aside other significant endeavors like constructing a larger, more modern dwelling to replace my current modest one, I decided to fully channel the most recent transfer into farming, anticipating a favorable yield come harvest time. Through the ensuing proceeds, I aim to initiate the construction of a new home suitable for my family of three.
 
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($322 USD)
access_time 11 months ago
attach_money
 
How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
My main objective for the coming year is to construct a quality house that offers safety and ample space for my family, ensuring a comfortable living environment because the one that we currently have is small. To accomplish this aspiration, I intend to utilize the profits generated from my goat-rearing project and beekeeping endeavors for construction. I am confident that with dedication and hard work, this vision can be successfully achieved.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
From the moment we enrolled until we were successfully enrolled, the organization flawlessly executed its operations. We were assured that the funding we received was unconditional, meaning we wouldn't have to repay anything. Right from the start, we were treated as valued individuals, and the level of service we received was exceptional. I am deeply grateful for the support we received during our time of greatest need.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
To sustain our family, my husband and I primarily rely on farming and occasional employment opportunities. We are blessed with a child. When I received my second transfer, I recognized it as a golden opportunity to utilize the funds wisely. I decided to invest in beekeeping by purchasing three beehives for $35, aiming to establish a beekeeping farm. Additionally, I initiated a goat-rearing project by acquiring six goats for $200. To ensure our immediate needs were met, I bought a sack of maize valued at $60 and reserved the remainder for emergencies. The support provided by GiveDirectly has had a transformative impact on my life. Previously, with our meager daily earnings of $3 from casual work, accomplishing all of this seemed impossible. I am incredibly grateful for the positive change that has been brought about.
 
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
18010 KES ($132 USD)
access_time 12 months ago
attach_money
 
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
When the first transfers finally arrived, I was filled with gratitude I couldn't believe that someone had given me this money, no questions asked. It wasn't just the financial support that meant so much to us, it was the feeling that we weren't alone in our struggles. I felt seen and heard in a way that I hadn't before, and that made all the difference. The impact of the unconditional transfers went far beyond just financial relief. We felt like we had been given a second chance at life, but more importantly, this is like a great opportunity to start fresh and build a better future for ourselves.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The most significant shift in our life now is that we are able to eat at least three meals a day, compared to having one or no meals at all at times in the past. We are also fortunate to be able to pay hospital bills comfortably without being frustrated and anxious about it every day. Give Directly transfers have undoubtedly increased the happiness and harmony in my household.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I am a mother of two and my day to day means of providing for my family is through casual labour where I earn about $2 in a day, this is way too little to cover our needs since I am the primary provider in my family now that my husband is not allowed to work. With my transfers, I bought groceries worth $100 and $4 to transport. In addition to the food, I was able to pay for husband's NHIF, he has had hearing problems and has to go for checkups every month, which was expensive so we used $ 600. This was very helpful because I was able to provide him with the medical care he needed without having to worry about the cost. Finally, I used $140 to purchase seats. This might seem like a small thing, but it was a significant purchase for our family since were able to improve our living conditions and enhance the quality of our life after living without proper seating in our home, which was causing us a lot of discomfort.
 
Enrolled
access_time 1 year ago
 
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
The transfer will be of immense help. Due to my husband's health condition, I'd prioritize his health. When he gets an hearing aid I'll be able to communicate with him easily. The doctor said it's a must we purchased a hearing aid. The transfer will really help and we'd appreciate it a lot. The hearing aid will cost $1500. Our parents will also help us in raising the extra amount needed.
What is the happiest part of your day?
It makes me happy being with my husband. I am very happy when we're able to take him to hospital and the doctor says he's doing well.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
My husband is deaf and currently undergoing treatment. He also has a heart problem and cannot do much. The doctor recommended that he just rests. Now he cannot contribute much. He needs medical checkup once a month. We require $100 for it monthly. To help him with hearing, he needs an hearing kit. This will cost $1500. It's too much for us. I am currently pregnant expecting our first child. This means I also contribute little. We sometimes depend on my husband's mother for assistance.