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.
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2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($372 USD)
access_time 1 year ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
My primary focus is on the ongoing project of caring for my goats. I've invested time and effort into nurturing these animals, and I believe that with continued dedication and proper management, I can expand my goat herd significantly. Each day, I check on their well-being, ensuring they have ample food, clean water, and a safe environment. My hope is that over time, the number of goats in my care will multiply, not only providing me with a sustainable source of income but also contributing to the betterment of my family's livelihood.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
The unconditional money they provided afforded me a newfound freedom that I'd never experienced before. With this financial support, I was able to invest in modern and comfortable bedding, bringing a sense of luxury and comfort to my daily life. Furthermore, I used a portion of the funds to invest in livestock, which has not only become a source of income but also a symbol of stability and self-sufficiency. GiveDirectly's approach has empowered me to make choices that have not only improved my living conditions but have also given me a sense of ownership and control over my life.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
My recent unconditional cash transfer was truly a blessing. I decided to prioritize my well-being and comfort, so I spent part of it on buying a new bed and mattress, totaling $130. For years, I had been sleeping on traditional rope beds, enduring countless sleepless nights and often waking up with back pain, which made it difficult to continue working. This upgrade to a proper bed and mattress has already made a world of difference in the quality of my sleep and my overall health. In addition, I used $100 of the funds to purchase spare parts for my motorcycle, which had been sitting broken for a while. This motorcycle is my main source of income, and being an elderly widow, I rely on it to support myself as my children have their own families to care for. The ability to repair it has brought a significant positive change to my life. I also invested in two goats, totaling $110, which will serve as valuable assets. I am confident that soon I'll have a thriving herd that will not only provide sustenance but also help me address any unexpected financial challenges. Furthermore, I gave $50 to my granddaughter, who is in college. She had been out of school for a while due to a lack of tuition fees, and I had no idea when she would be able to return. This cash transfer allowed me to bring her a step closer to her dreams. With the remaining amount, I made sure that my family of three never had to go to bed with empty stomachs again, securing our daily sustenance.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
55000 KES ($388 USD)
access_time 1 year ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
At around 3 pm while resting at home from grazing my livestock, I heard a message tone from my phone that rang twice rapidly. I asked my daughter who was next to me to read and interpret the information for me because I am illiterate. She informed me that I had received the initial promised $550. I could hardly believe it, I felt a rush of emotions overwhelm me, and at that moment, joy exploded from deep within my heart. I couldn't contain my happiness, and an ululation of pure delight escaped my lips, reverberating through the air. It was as if a heavy burden had been lifted, and a glimmer of hope shone brightly in my life. With that first transfer from GiveDirectly, I knew that a new chapter had begun, and my dreams of a better future suddenly seemed within reach. This reminded me that kindness and compassion still exist in this world.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
Receiving the cash transfer from GiveDirectly was a turning point in my life. No longer bound by the chains of poverty, I seized the opportunity to invest in goat-keeping. With the newfound capital, I purchased a small herd of goats as an investment. The goats multiply rapidly so I am optimistic about having a bigger herd which I will convert into monetary value if the need arises. I was also able to construct a spacious house, a dream I had never thought possible. No longer cramped in a tiny shack, my family now enjoys the comfort and security of a proper home. GiveDirectly's support not only helped me to start an investment but also gave me the chance to create a better future for myself and my loved ones.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Receiving the unconditional cash transfer from GiveDirectly was a life-changing moment for me. With the money, I decided to invest in the future by purchasing four high-breed goats for $180. It was a smart move, as these goats have already started reproducing, promising a steady source of income for my family. Along with securing our financial stability, I also prioritized my children's education. I used $60 to pay their school fees, ensuring they could continue their studies without interruption.
Being a peasant farmer, I understood the importance of food security. So, I invested a portion of the cash transfer in buying a sack of maize. This decision brought a sense of relief and comfort, knowing that my family would have enough for a good period. However, the most significant change was the construction of a new house. My previous dwelling was small and congested, causing inconvenience whenever we had visitors. But now, with a spacious and welcoming home, I no longer have to rely on my neighbor's hospitality. I can comfortably offer a nice place for guests to sleep something that is providing me with peace of mind and a renewed sense of happiness.
Enrolled
access_time over 1 year ago
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
I am an old woman living with my grandson who is schooling at Dulukiza primary school. He is at class six. I do subsistence farming as my job. I have had health challenges with my legs having pains in the bones such that I fail to walk. This has made be not be able to work. My grandson will join junior secondary next year and the problem will be the required fees. I will save $600 so as to use it next year when he joins the junior school. I will also use $400 to buy five goats as an investment. This is a reserve that will help in educating the grandson.
What is the happiest part of your day?
To be very sincere I am fully of stress in my life. I have two sons , their wives and seven children who are members of the cult church at Shakahola in Malindi. Of those, only one son has been found alive and he is recovering well at Malindi hospital. The rest are suspected to be dead. However Sorrowfully I am, I still feel happy for the one soul that is alive and he is doing well at the hospital.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
I was born without any complications. However, last year I developed some problems with my legs. They periodically become very painfully such that I cannot walk. I have undergone through medication but the problem is still disturbing me. I cannot walk for a long distance now. This is the challenge I am currently facing.