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.
Tarkok's family
access_time 2 months ago
Tarkok received a $280 third payment.
"Despite our heavy reliance on livestock farming, purchasing food has become increasingly challenging due to soaring prices caused by scarcity and the monopolization of the market by a few successful producers. Looking ahead to the coming year and beyond, my priority is to reduce our dependence on purchased food items for my family of three by intensifying our focus on farming, particularly with the onset of rain after periods of drought. As I age, my primary objective is to ensure an ample supply of food for my grandchildren, who rely on me for sustenance. Despite owning a piece of land, the detrimental effects of drought have made harvesting increasingly difficult. Nonetheless, I remain determined to overcome these challenges and enhance our food security through improved farming practices which include irrigation, and timely planting."
Agnes's family
access_time 2 months ago
Agnes received a $21 eighteenth payment.
"A significant milestone for me in the upcoming year involves directing a substantial portion of my transfers towards the acquisition of livestock, focusing on both cows and goats. The dairy cow represents a promising source of revenue, particularly through the sale of milk. Furthermore, as the herd expands, I foresee additional opportunities to generate income by selling some of the cattle in the market at favorable prices. The invaluable financial support I have received is profoundly shaping my journey towards a more promising future, transcending the constraints of poverty."
Julius's family
access_time 2 months ago
Julius received a $276 third payment.
"Receiving the transfers was a turning point for my family. I allocated $150 to complete the construction of a two-roomed iron-roofed house, enhancing our living conditions. Sensibly, I saved $170, providing a financial buffer for unforeseen circumstances. The remainder of the funds was invested in bee hives, reviving a previously unsuccessful honey business. Market challenges, such as soaring prices, had led to the business's initial setback. Now, with renewed resources, I am optimistic about the revitalization of the honey venture. This not only adds another income stream for my family of six but also diversifies our sources of revenue beyond farming. The support received has enabled me to pursue these strategic decisions, fostering resilience and adaptability for a more secure and prosperous future."
Irine's family
access_time 2 months ago
Irine received a $276 third payment.
"With my most recent transfer of $450 from GiveDirectly, I made strategic choices to address various needs. I allocated $120 to fence my farm, ensuring a secure space for maize farming. This not only provides food for my family but also aims to generate surplus for selling and meeting future needs. Recognizing the importance of immediate necessities, I spent $50 on buying food to support my family. Another priority was repaying my SHG (Self-Help Group) loan, for which I used $250. This step not only fulfills a financial obligation but also enhances my credit, enabling me to borrow again in the future. A portion of the funds, $30, went towards clothing, while an additional $30 was allocated to cover a hospital bill for my child. Looking ahead, I've earmarked $150 to purchase goats when prices become more favorable. This thoughtful allocation of funds reflects a comprehensive approach to addressing immediate and future needs, ensuring a more stable and secure future for myself and my family."
Nakoroi's family
access_time 2 months ago
Nakoroi received a $111 initial payment.
"When the notification confirming the receipt of $180 from GiveDirectly popped up on my Phone which was with my daughter at that moment, we were both at home around 6:00 PM. The joy we felt was immeasurable, given our current circumstances where we had been struggling with lots of - hard to find - in order to buy food. We celebrated this unexpected blessing, grateful for the support. The following day, my daughter, who is also my reliable helper, and I dedicated time to strategize on how best to utilize the funds. We refrained from impulsive decisions, opting to ensure that every choice we made was both sound and final. On the third day, we visited a nearby town, where we carefully selected goods at wholesale prices. This experience not only brought a sense of relief but also instilled a renewed hope for a brighter future."
Salama's family
access_time 3 months ago
Salama received a $336 second payment.
"In future, my aspirations are powered by a desire to provide a secure and comfortable life for my family. One of my main goals is to build a 3-roomed house and a proper toilet on our new shamba, ensuring a decent shelter for my loved ones. Am banking on farming as a means to secure both sufficient food for my family and savings that would otherwise be spent on purchasing food. This shift in focus reflects my commitment to a more sustainable and self-reliant lifestyle. Despite the unpredictability of charcoal prices in my burning charcoal venture, I am optimistic that through diligent farming and well advised financial management, I can achieve these goals and create a positive change in our lives. The prospect of providing my family with a stable home and ensuring their well-being through self-sustaining practices fills me with hope and determination for the future."
Gona's family
access_time 3 months ago
Gona received a $22 twenty-first payment.
"As I said earlier my ultimate dream is to become a driver. I have seen people drive and I like it when I see them drive. I believe I have my heart set on this dream and it is the right dream for me to achieve my goal. I want to reach about $150 so I can make enquiries on prices for training before I pursue this goal. I know that if I get a job as a driver I will make enough money to educate my children and provide a good life for them as well."
Erick's family
access_time 3 months ago
Erick received a $22 twenty-second payment.
"As I said I am the only breadwinner in my house supporting my mother, wife, and child. This has been difficult since I no longer make as much as I used to before fuel prices were hiked. I have wanted to help my wife set up a business to help increase our monthly income. I plan to help her open a vegetable stall which will cost me approximately $100. I plan to save from my transfers and my work till I get this amount so that we can start this business."
Kiptek's family
access_time 4 months ago
Kiptek received a $293 second payment.
"For everyone, GiveDirectly has had a profound impact on our daily lives, especially during challenging economic times when affording more than one meal a day was a struggle. . GiveDirectly's program has stood out as an open and transparent process that required no payment, bribes, or any deceptive tactics for enrollment. The fairness of the program is something we all appreciate and commend the organization for. The monetary support provided is deemed the best, allowing us to make timely investments based on market prices. Overall, the entire process has been commendable, and I express the wish that GiveDirectly continues with the same approach in subsequent villages."
Kabunda's family
access_time 4 months ago
Kabunda received a $23 fourteenth payment.
"I accumulated savings of $30 within a close-knit savings group comprised of relatives. My intention is to utilize these funds to procure iron sheets and construct a spacious two-roomed dwelling capable of accommodating my family of eight. Our current single-room residence is inadequate for our needs. Furthermore, I disbursed $20 for the school fees of my four children at Mnazimwenga Primary School. I am delighted that they completed their studies and participated in their end-of-year examinations without any hindrances. Prior to the maize harvest, I allocated $42 towards purchasing food. This ensured that our family never went to bed hungry, despite the challenges of acquiring food at inflated prices from local stores. Additionally, I acquired a sheep for $37, viewing it as a prospective investment due to its potential to multiply, providing an opportunity to sell some offspring and generate income. I am genuinely content with the financial assistance, which complements my income from charcoal sales and aids in meeting my family's needs."
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