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.
Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
I was awakened by a loud vibration from my mobile phone. I immediately checked to confirm the content of the message. I realized I had received my first transfer from GiveDircty. I could not hold the joy that I had since I knew the money will transform my living standard.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
I am extremely grateful to GiveDirectly for transforming my life in so many ways. But the most important is the fact that I now have some new beddings which I acquired after receiving the transfer. I have been married for over fifteen years and I have been sleeping on the traditional beds which I was so uncomfortable. I never had the joy of sleeping comfortably in a nice bed because of poverty life. I was always attacked by some bedbugs and more so I used to complain of some back pain as a result of the bed. But for now, this is history. I am now sleeping comfortably just like the rest, I no longer have to worry about the bedbugs or even the pains.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I spent part of my first transfer in buying some beddings such as new beds and a mattress. These were to replace the old ones which we have been using for all those years. I then paid school fees for my children who are still in primary school so that they can study without any disturbances. I also bought some building materials such as bricks and cement for the construction of a permanent house because I have been living in a muddy house that required maintenance every now and then because of the rains. The remaining amount of money, I bought enough foodstuffs for my family.
Enrolled
access_time almost 5 years ago
What does receiving this money mean to you?
My greatest desire has been to extend a one room for my big boys who are currently spending their nights in the same room in which my daughters do sleep. I have wished to separate them but due to financial crisis, I have never managed to do this. My first plan once I receive the transfers from GiveDirectly is to spend the initial disbursement to buy blocks and construct one room. The other transfer will aid in paying my children's school fees since I have big arrears.
What is the happiest part of your day?
The happiest part of my day is in the evening because of the maximum time that I get to rest from doing my household chores. Unlike in the morning and after hours when I am busy taking my roles as a housewife.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
Financial constraints has been my biggest hardship that I have ever faced in my life. Currently, I am compelled to be a housewife and I majorly depend on my husband who is vending water at Mombasa. His job has not been reliable since it's income is low and can not fully meet our basic needs.
