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.
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Enrollment
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Transfers
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Completed
Newsfeed > John's Profile
John's family
John
landscapeCountry:
kenya
workOccupation:
Raising livestock
faceAge:
73
workCampaign
Kenya Large Transfer
There will be no further updates from this completed recipient.
3rd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($346 USD)
access_time 6 months ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
My plan is to plant mangoes after I harvest my maize. I really enjoy eating mangoes and look forward to sitting under a mango tree while eating them. Additionally, I plan to sell the mangoes to cover my basic needs.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
I never had the chance to buy barbed wire and wire mesh, something I had always dreamed of but couldn't afford. Thanks to your unconditional cash, I was finally able to do so. Please continue your great work in helping other people.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I am an old man, and my wife is also old. She lives with one of our sons so he can take care of her, while I live near another of our sons who looks after me. I cook for myself with the help of one of my grandchildren. Life hasn't been too hard for me because my children provide for me.Recently, I received my last transfer and decided to use $240 to purchase four goats as an investment. I plan to sell them in the future in case of an emergency. I used the remaining amount to buy barbed wire and fenced my half-hectare maize farm to protect it from other people's goats. Now, I am very happy because I have everything I need, thanks to GiveDirectly, and I am truly grateful for their support.
 
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($280 USD)
access_time 10 months ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
In the coming years, my goal is to complete the fencing of my farm and engage in farming activities. Achieving this would not only bring joy but also a deep sense of satisfaction to my life. The finished fencing will enhance security for my farm, providing a conducive environment for successful farming endeavors, and ultimately contributing to my overall well-being.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
I don't have any specific feedback about GiveDirectly. I believe they should continue providing direct cash assistance to vulnerable individuals. The simplicity of cash transfers directly to those in need ensures a straightforward and effective approach, allowing for flexibility in addressing immediate needs and empowering recipients to make decisions based on their unique circumstances.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
After receiving $450 from GiveDirectly, I allocated $200 to purchase a wire mesh to fence my farm. This decision was motivated by the need for security, aiming to enhance the protection of my land and anticipate increased productivity during harvesting. The secure environment is crucial for ensuring a steady food supply. I plan to redirect proceeds from surplus harvests to cover school fees for my kids. The remaining $250 were utilized to buy two goats. I am genuinely happy and grateful to GiveDirectly for facilitating these improvements in my life.
 
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
20000 KES ($132 USD)
access_time 1 year ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
The joy I felt upon learning that I had received funds from GiveDirectly is beyond words. I recall being at home, unwinding in my modest dwelling when my son entered with the uplifting news that GiveDirectly had provided me with financial support. In that moment, I sensed that God had finally remembered me, and I could now pursue my aspirations of acquiring household items and securing my land with fencing. I express profound gratitude for this cash transfer, administered without discrimination, ensuring equal and respectful treatment for everyone.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The capacity to purchase crucial household items that were previously absent is the biggest difference in my daily life. I used to sleep on a worn-out mattress, but with the cash I received, I was able to change that situation. This not only ensures the fulfillment of our basic needs but also elevates our overall living standards. I am genuinely grateful for the assistance that has brought about such a positive impact on our well-being.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
In my old age, I depend on my sons for assistance as my capacity for work has diminished. Unfortunately, their support is barely sufficient to meet all my needs. However, when GiveDirectly entered our village and announced the unconditional cash transfers, a glimmer of hope for a significant improvement in our lives emerged. I share my home with my grandchild, having parted ways with my wife long ago, and I had to single-handedly care for my children. With the additional funds, I chose to invest in essential household items, including a $25 mattress, a $6 table, and other items totaling $47. I allocated $40 to purchase barbed wire to fence my land, ensuring a secure space for others to cultivate crops for me without intrusion from animals like goats that could damage my plants. I am profoundly thankful for this newfound opportunity to enhance my living conditions.
 
Enrolled
access_time over 1 year ago
 
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
I am passionate about farming but I have not seriously engaged on it because of lack of capital to carry out various activities. I used to do it but because of my advanced age, I am not able to do it on my own anymore. I plan to go back to farming and there is no perfect time than this. I intend to plant mangoes since it is a perennial crop and does not require any farm management which can be expensive. Furthermore, the mangoes here does well and there is a ready market. I anticipate being able to get disposable income for the upkeep and to purchase food. I intend to use $ 300 to purchase seedlings, pay casual labourers and do fencing around the farm.
What is the happiest part of your day?
Despite the loneliness occasioned by the passing away of my companion, I take great satisfaction in being blessed with several grandchildren. I feel surrounded by warmth and love beyond borders. God has been gracious to me as He has allowed me to live for more years to see my generation.I am certain that my name will live on long even after I am gone and that is the joy I experience.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
I am a widower and of old age, 70 years now. I have been lonely but never remarried after the demise of my wife more than 20 years ago. I am increasingly becoming feeble and unable to engage in income-generating activities like farming and this has made me sometimes lack food and subsequently resulted in my life being miserable and unbearable. I do not want to burden my children since they have several commitments to look after their families and educate their children.