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.
Paulina's family
access_time 2 months ago
Paulina received a $339 third payment.
"I have always desired to purchase a water tank for harvesting and storing water. Water scarcity is a significant challenge in our area, often requiring us to travel long distances and wait in lengthy queues at the borehole, which serves a large community. Sometimes, I have to buy water, which is costly at $0.4 for a 20-liter jerrycan. Being dependent on my children for financial support due to my old age, this expense adds strain to our finances. However, I added $170 from the second transfer to my savings from the women's table banking group that I am in. This enabled me to buy a 3000-litre water tank. Having it on my compound brings immense relief as it eases the burden of fetching water, and I can now access water from a cheaper source; water bowser truck, reducing our expenses significantly. Additionally, I have fenced my half-acre land where I have planted mango fruits. Livestock encroachment has been a persistent threat, causing damage and reducing production. Using $150, I bought posts and two barbed wires, with plans to complete the fencing soon. This will safeguard my fruits and create an opportunity to cultivate vegetables for our domestic use. Furthermore, I used $80 in acquiring one Dorper sheep to add to the two I previously purchased. These sheep are low-maintenance and reproduce faster, providing a potential source of income through the sale of their offspring.I spent the remaining $50 to purchase food to ensure that my family of four does not go hungry."
Faith's family
access_time 2 months ago
Faith enrolled.
"We fetch water from the canals of river perkera which is not safe and healthy for domestic use. This nudges me to prioritize a plastic water tank worth KES 35000. Our area is conducive and suitable for livestock keeping, I will invest KES 50000 to purchase a cow and five goats."
Nazi's family
access_time 2 months ago
Nazi received a $384 second payment.
"Before, getting fresh water was a daily struggle. We had to trek long distances, and sometimes we endured water shortages for weeks on end. It was exhausting and worrying, especially during dry spells. With the support I received, I was able to purchase a water tank for $185. This investment has made a world of difference. I no longer worry about water scarcity. I also used $99 to improve the water system by setting up piping and plumbing directly to the tank. Now, fetching water is easy and convenient. I'm incredibly grateful for this change. Having access to clean water has not only improved my quality of life but also brought peace of mind knowing that I'm prepared for any shortages. Additionally, I decided to invest some of the money in the future. I used $80 to purchase two goats. This investment not only provides a potential source of income but also adds a layer of security for my family's future. Furthermore, I was able to extend a helping hand to my son when he faced difficulties with his son's education. I contributed $50 towards his son's school fees, ensuring that he could return to school without any barriers. It's fulfilling to be able to support my family and invest in our future, thanks to the assistance I received from GiveDirectly."
Tarkok's family
access_time 3 months ago
Tarkok received a $309 third payment.
"I wholeheartedly agree that GiveDirectly has the power to transform lives for the better. Personally, I have experienced the profound impact of their assistance firsthand. With the support provided, I have been able to acquire assets such as a water tank and fence my farm, laying the groundwork for a sustainable future. Now, with my farm fenced, I am eager to sow mangoes as a means to earn a living for myself and my family. This opportunity would not have been possible without the assistance from GiveDirectly, and for that, I am truly grateful. As for their approach, I believe it is effective as it is. In my opinion, there is no need for any changes. Everything is working well, and I am optimistic about the future thanks to the support I have received from GiveDirectly."
Brendah's family
access_time 3 months ago
Brendah received a $309 third payment.
"Life was really tough before we received assistance from GiveDirectly. My husband and I depended on casual jobs that paid just $2 a day to support our family of seven, including our five daughters. With the help I got, I invested in a 5,000-litre water tank for $330, which was crucial due to the severe water shortages we face. Normally, in the dry season, the river dries up, and I have to walk 2 kilometers to a borehole, the community's main water source. I'd go early in the morning, between 4 and 5 am, to fetch water and avoid the long queues. The cost of hiring a motorbike to transport the water was $2, way beyond our means. Now, I plan to buy 10,000 liters of water for $50 in bulk and share it with a neighbor, cutting the cost to $25 each, which is a big saving for us. Further, I used $50 to add more food items to my small hotel business, which I started with my first transfer from GiveDirectly. At my hotel, I sell food and fresh milk, earning about $15 a day. As I run the hotel, my husband looks after our tomato farm, which we started with my second transfer. To ensure we have enough food, I bought a 90kg bag of maize for $42. With the remaining money, I bought school uniforms for three of my children in primary school for $15 and paid $13 for school fees to the teachers under the Board of Management. This support has truly transformed our lives, making a positive impact and allowing us to afford a living."
Zainab's family
access_time 3 months ago
Zainab received a $22 eighteenth payment.
"This year, my objective is to accumulate sufficient funds to purchase a water tank, priced at $500. Acquiring this tank presents a promising business opportunity for me, particularly in light of the persistent issue of water scarcity in my village, particularly during the dry season. My strategy involves storing water in the tank and subsequently selling it to generate income. I am immensely grateful for the ongoing financial assistance from Give Directly, which has been instrumental in supporting my family's education endeavors."
Vincent's family
access_time 3 months ago
Vincent received a $288 second payment.
"On receiving $450 from GiveDirectly, our biggest challenge at home has been water. The nearest clean water source is over 3 kilometers away. So, I decided to invest $350 in buying a water tank. Now, we can store water for drinking and other needs. With clean water easily available, life has become much easier for me, my wife, and our child. I used $70 to extend our house. This extra room provides more space and comfort for our family. Now, we have a cozy home where we can live comfortably. Thanks to GiveDirectly, we've been able to address our most pressing needs and improve our living conditions."
Tarkok's family
access_time 4 months ago
Tarkok received a $280 second payment.
"Once I receive my last transfer, I will prioritize fencing of my compound. Lately, I have had a lot of intereference from goats whom we share the same compound and I feel that I should seclude them in their compound. I also look forward to purchasing a water tank and have access to clean drinking water. All these would only be possible where there is money. If I get enough or extra money I will be able to renovate my house by erecting a new roof. The current roof is leaking."
Kimoi's family
access_time 4 months ago
Kimoi received a $280 second payment.
"In the upcoming year, with the assistance of GiveDirectly transfers, my goal is to install water harvesting gutters around the roof and construct a dedicated place for the water tank. This accomplishment holds significant meaning for me as it ensures a sustainable and convenient water source at home. The added happiness and satisfaction stem from the improvement in water accessibility, making daily life more manageable and enjoyable."
Esther's family
access_time 4 months ago
Esther received a $280 second payment.
"In my perspective, GD has truly excelled by providing us with unconditional cash transfers. This generous support has granted us the flexibility to address our diverse needs. I am particularly grateful that, with the assistance of the transfer, I have acquired a water tank, alleviating the constant worry about this vital resource. Thank you, GD, for making a significant impact and offering us the means to improve our lives."
water tank