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.
How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
As I reflect on the year ahead, I find renewed hope and determination. For too long, I have been struggling with the worsening state of my eyesight, especially in my right eye. It's been a source of constant concern and anxiety. All this time, I've yearned to visit the hospital for a check-up and treatment, but the lack of ready money has stood in my way. Now, having addressed the pressing issues that held me back, I am resolute about my goal for the coming year: I will finally seek medical attention for my eyes. The thought of losing my sight terrifies me, and I am willing to do everything in my power to preserve it. With newfound optimism, I look forward to taking that crucial step toward regaining my vision and securing a brighter future.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
I must say that GiveDirectly has impressed me in every aspect. Their professionalism was truly top-notch, and their discipline in the enrollment process was commendable. Despite the temptation to take advantage of our situation, they remained strict and respectful throughout our interactions. This project is something everyone in our community has embraced with open arms, and I genuinely hope it can continue in the future. Even though we were told it would only run for three cycles before moving to another village, the impact it has had on our lives and the sense of fairness and integrity it embodies make me wish it could stay longer. GiveDirectly has not only provided us with much-needed financial support but has also restored our faith in initiatives that genuinely aim to uplift and empower communities like ours.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
Receiving the unconditional cash transfer was a turning point for my family, and I made sure to use it wisely. I allocated $115 to purchase maize and other household foodstuffs, which not only ensured we had enough to eat but also allowed us to enjoy a variety of balanced meals. To invest in our future, I spent $240 to buy four goats, with plans to breed them and sell their offspring down the road. Additionally, I set aside $10 for essential household goods, including toiletries, and saved $20 for any unforeseen emergencies. The remaining $37 was put to good use, addressing some of the household needs we had been struggling with. Most importantly, I allocated $28 to pay for my child's school fees, which was crucial given the challenges our subsistence farming faced due to adverse drought conditions. This unconditional cash transfer has provided our family with stability, security, and the means to build a better future for ourselves.
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
18010 KES ($129 USD)
access_time 4 months ago
attach_money
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
It was early in the morning, and I was busy at the farm when my helper arrived and told me the wonderful news. I stopped what I was doing right away and began rejoicing as I thanked God for his blessings. This money gave me new hope for a better future.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
We The most noticeable change in my daily life is the availability of two plastic chairs. This has given me confidence, so I no longer hesitate to welcome guests. This is due to the fact that I currently know that they will at least feel at ease seated.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I recently received a transfer; therefore, I spent KES 1500 on two plastic seats. I made this choice so that whenever guests come over, they will always have a comfortable seat available. In addition to this, I spent KES 9000 on a sack of maize, 3 kg of beans, and more food to last us a few weeks. With the money that was left over, I purchased some laundry detergents and four pieces of iron sheets that I intend to use to construct a more opulent house for the family.
Enrolled
access_time 7 months ago
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
I'm very grateful for the transfers that have come promptly when I don't have food. For the first transfers, I intend to purchase food. I plan to buy a bag of maize at 50 dollars and half a bag of beans together with other accessories for cooking. This will ensure that for the months that come, I have enough food for me and my grandchild. For the second and third transfers, I plan to purchase 4 goats at 50 dollars each. This livestock will provide me with milk. For the remaining transfers, I plan to save for my future and mainly for food and upkeep after I have depleted the food purchases from the first transfers.
What is the happiest part of your day?
My happiness in the past six months has come from my children. They have been able to provide me with food when I cannot get any which has greatly delighted me. Even though we have been faced with famine and drought my children have worked hard to provide for me even when they don't have enough also.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
The challenge I'm faced with at the moment is the lack of food. It has been 3 years since we grew anything on our farms due to extended droughts. I'm also old and partially blind which makes it difficult for me to cater for myself and there I'm forced to depend on my children for food and my upkeep. I feel sad that sometimes I have to go hungry because of a lack of food.
