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.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
In my opinion, GiveDirectly did well in sending nonrefundable cash transfers directly to my mobile phone. This was a good decision and I am happy that I can decide what I like to spend the transfer on to better my life. I do not see anything that they did not do well about the program.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I spent the recent transfer to start poultry farming by purchasing 7 chickens. Previously, I had some poultry but they all died due to chronic illness. I had wished to restart it but I lacked the financial capacity. This is my future investment which will help me whenever I encounter any financial challenge as I will be able to sell them to assist me in such a time. In addition, I spent the remaining amount to purchase enough foodstuffs for myself. I am also planning to spend my next transfer to purchase a goat.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
1200 KES ($11 USD)
access_time over 2 years ago
attach_money
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I was seated under a tree resting when I heard a notification on my phone and called one of my grandchildren to check for me. When he confirmed that the notification was for the GD transfer I was very excited and immediately sent him to withdraw the money.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
It is still very early to notice any change since the KES 1200 that I received from GD helped me sort a few basic needs like food and medicine for one day only.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Old age comes with a lot of illnesses, this is where these transfers came in handy because they enabled me in buying medication. I channeled the rest of the money towards food and my grandchild's school fees.
Enrolled
access_time over 2 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
I would like to take care of my sleeping place by buying a bed and a mattress because I don't have a proper ones. What I'm using currently is a traditional bed made from ropes and pieces of wood but it's also old in a way that causes discomfort. Sometimes the old pieces of wood pinches my body as I also don't have a mattress to use on top of it.
What is the happiest part of your day?
I have had health problems for the past three years and so I wouldn't say there was any episode of happiness. Most of these problems I have tried treating locally but with little success. The last clinician advised me to look for money and go to specialists for my eye and ear problems as I use painkiller for body pains.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
I have been trying to get treatment for the pains I have been feeling all over my body. I also have ear and eyesight problems that I have struggled with for the past three years. I have visited local clinics severally but the problem persists. Right now I need to go for specialized medication.
