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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Newsfeed > Jonathan's Profile
Jonathan's family
Jonathan
landscapeCountry:
kenya
workOccupation:
Charcoal burning
faceAge:
59
workCampaign
Kenya Large Transfer
Upcoming Stage
Next Payment
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Follow to be updated on Jonathan's next check-in.
 
2nd Payment
Transfer Amount
45000 KES ($306 USD)
access_time 9 months ago
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How is your life different than it would have been if you never received the transfer?
Now that my farm is prepared, I'll plant maize when it rains. After harvesting, I'll sell some of the produce and keep some for our consumption. The money I earn from selling will go towards purchasing a cow. Once the cow multiplies, I'll use the offspring to pay off my wife's dowry, which I haven't finished paying and is causing me a lot of stress, feeling like a debt hanging over me. With the help of GiveDirectly cash, I'm confident I'll be able to achieve this dream.
In your opinion, what does GiveDirectly do well, and what does it not do well?
I want to express my gratitude to GiveDirectly for their timely assistance when we needed it most. Initially, some people were hesitant to accept it, but I recognized the pressing issues and expenses that needed to be addressed. At first, I was confused, thinking GiveDirectly was associated with the Red Cross organization, which typically provides housing assistance rather than cash. However, I'm pleased with the informative meetings and discussions held by GiveDirectly, which helped clarify that the cash came from generous donors outside the country. I am truly appreciative and hope that GiveDirectly continues to receive the necessary funding to support poor individuals in our country.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
I eagerly awaited the arrival of the GiveDirectly cash, as I trusted the officers from GiveDirectly when they educated us about receiving unconditional cash. Upon receiving it, my priority was to construct a new room made of iron sheets. The previous one, made of grass and mud, would let in rain, making it feel like I was living outside. I allocated $280 for this project.Next, I purchased two plastic chairs for $10, as the ones I had previously broken, leaving us with nothing to sit on. I also spent $50 on foodstuff, as we relied on my wife's casual labor work, primarily charcoal burning, to support our family of five. Additionally, I used to sell my sheep to supplement our income for buying food.With $100, I bought two sheep, as they multiply faster than goats. Goats often died before multiplying, which was discouraging. Finally, I invested the remaining $40 in agriculture by preparing my farm for planting one hectare of maize. I knew that a successful harvest would provide plenty of food for my family, relieving my wife of the burden of buying food and eliminating the need to sell our sheep for sustenance.My family and I are grateful for the cash assistance, and I am filled with happiness knowing that we can improve our living conditions and secure our future.
 
Initial Payment
Transfer Amount
18010 KES ($114 USD)
access_time 11 months ago
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Describe the moment when you received your money. How did you feel?
At home with my family, the joy was palpable when the notification of receiving money arrived that I received $200 from GiveDirectly. Instantly, a rush of happiness prompted me to envision immediate improvements. Three goats, a source of sustenance and potential income, became the first priority. Ensuring the well-being of my family, I allocated funds to purchase food, a gesture that echoed through the walls of our home. The jubilation didn't stop there; I seized the opportunity to invest in comfort. A comfortable bed, a symbol of security and relaxation, was a tangible manifestation of the positive change this financial boost brought to our lives. In that moment, the impact was not just monetary; it was the infusion of joy and tangible improvements that resonated within the walls of our home.
Describe the biggest difference in your daily life since you started receiving payments from GiveDirectly.
The most significant shift since the transfers from GiveDirectly is the newfound comfort in sleep. The acquisition of a bed, a simple yet transformative addition, has elevated the quality of rest. This change isn't just about physical comfort but symbolizes a tangible improvement in the overall well-being. Moreover, the impact extends beyond me as the assurance of regular meals for my kids further contributes to a sense of stability and contentment in our lives.
What did you spend your most recent transfer(s) on?
The recent transfer from GiveDirectly became a catalyst for comfort and security. Prioritizing well-being, I invested my $200 in three goats a source of sustenance and potential income. The foundation for contentment extended to the present with the purchase of nourishing food. Additionally, recognizing the importance of rest, I ensured a good night's sleep by acquiring a comfortable bed. For someone of my age, the newfound tranquility is not just a luxury; it's a tangible improvement that resonates with the wisdom of rest and rejuvenation.
 
Enrolled
access_time 1 year ago
 
What do you plan to do with the cash transfer?
Receiving the transfers means so much to me since I believe it will change my life positively. Since farming is my passion and my source of livelihood, I intend to cultivate three hecatares on my farm and plant maize. This will cost me about $300 of the transfers. This will provide me with food and money to pay for my children's school fees. I also intend to purchase 4 goats at $50 each. This will be my investment since livestock raising does well in our village. Finally, since I live in a mud house, I plan to build an iron sheet house by using about $500 of the transfers. This will give me a good shelter and I don't have to worry about rains and termites destroying my house.
What is the happiest part of your day?
My happiness in the past 6 months has come mainly from the rains we have received. It has been 3 years since we received good rains in our village. The rains we got this month brought me a lot of happiness since it offers me a chance to plant maize in my farm.
What is the biggest hardship you've faced in your life?
The biggest challenge I'm facing currently is the lack of money and strength to do farming. 2 years ago water from lake Baringo moved to my farm which distanilized me and affected my ability to farm. This has been a challenge since I don't have money to be able to do large scale farming which I solely depend on. This makes my life difficult since I have to do casual work to be able to pay school fees for my 3 children.