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 4 months ago
Paulina received a $280 second payment.
"In the next few years, I aim to achieve two important things. Firstly, I want to complete my kitchen, making it a comfortable space for cooking. I also plan to buy a water tank to ensure a fresh water supply for drinking. These goals are important to me because having a functional kitchen and access to clean water will contribute to the health and well-being of my family. Achieving these milestones will bring me great happiness."
Paulina's family
access_time 5 months ago
Paulina received a $287 second payment.
"In the coming year and beyond, I have a new goal to finalize the construction of a fence around my piece of land. This serves the vital purpose of safeguarding my property from potential damage caused by stray livestock and other wild animals. Considering the prevalent drought in our region, my plan also involves acquiring a water tank to efficiently collect rainwater, reducing the need to purchase water from vendors and cutting costs. Reflecting on the past, I had raised goats, but I had to sell them to settle school fee arrears. Looking forward, I aim to purchase at least four sheep in the future. Recognizing their fast growth and reproductive capabilities, I anticipate that they will provide a sustainable source of income through breeding and multiplication."
Kazungu's family
access_time 5 months ago
Kazungu received a $23 fourteenth payment.
"My primary focus remains on buying and installing a water storage tank at home. This goal has been consistent since I began receiving cash transfers, and I've been diligently saving toward its realization whenever possible. Water scarcity has been a persistent issue in my household, especially during droughts, necessitating long walks to obtain water. Acquiring a water tank would be a sustainable solution to this problem. While my income from traditional medicine primarily covers basic needs, I am grateful that the cash transfers are bringing me closer to achieving this goal. Depending on the funds accumulated by mid-next year, I plan to purchase a water tank based on that amount."
Samwel's family
access_time 5 months ago
Samwel received a $293 second payment.
"Upon receiving the second transfer, I had specific plans in mind for the $450, aiming to address pressing needs in our family of four. Recognizing the high cost of buying milk regularly, I decided to prioritize purchasing a heifer for $260, hoping to enhance milk production in the future. While the heifer is not yet producing milk, I am optimistic about its service and subsequent contribution to our milk supply alongside the other three cows we have. The challenge of fetching water from distant streams, especially in our old age, prompted us to invest $178 in a plastic water tank and gutters. This setup efficiently collects rainwater from the roof, eliminating the need to spend money on water transportation. Since its installation, we haven't incurred any expenses for water, and we hope it will continue to sustain us even after the rain stops. We wisely used the remaining $12 to purchase foodstuff, which is supporting us while we await the maturity of the crops we planted using the first transfer. Overall, the second transfer from GiveDirectly has significantly improved our living conditions, addressing key challenges in our daily lives."
Mwenda's family
access_time 6 months ago
Mwenda received a $23 eighteenth payment.
"Previously, I have faced various difficulties due to water scarcity, particularly during droughts. This compels us to trek long distances in search of water, and the water we obtain is often unfit for consumption. My intention is to invest in a water tank, enabling me to store water during the rainy season for use in the dry season. Additionally, I aim to purchase a large cooking pot that I can rent out, generating a modest income to support my family. I am delighted and appreciative of the financial assistance."
Elizabeth's family
access_time 6 months ago
Elizabeth received a $360 second payment.
"One thing that GiveDirectly has done perfectly is make people realize their dreams. personally, my life has truly changed, with my first transfer I purchased a water tank, and the second one I paid my children's school fees as well as opening a poultry-keeping business. To GiveDirectly may you never lack, you lifted my life from nowhere to somewhere. My since appreciation because you promised us the unconditional cash and you finally fulfilled the promise.My wish if the organization will add us more funds so that we can continue improving our living standards."
Maria's family
access_time 6 months ago
Maria received a $295 second payment.
"My objective is to invest in a water tank and fence my land. Fencing the land will allow me to cultivate my crops without interference, while having a water tank will provide a reliable storage solution for clean water. I intend to achieve this goal by utilizing the funds generated from farming activities and supplementing them with the little savings I accumulate over time. This strategic approach aims to address both water storage needs and agricultural productivity on my land."
Christina's family
access_time 6 months ago
Christina received a $295 second payment.
"In the coming year and beyond, my goal is to acquire a sizable water tank to facilitate the collection of rainwater, providing a crucial resource during dry periods when piped water becomes scarce. Despite having access to piped water, the absence of a storage facility hampers our ability to fully enjoy its benefits, especially during weeks when the supply is intermittent. Additionally, I am keen on reintroducing goat farming to my activities. Having previously sold a few goats to cover school fees, I see this as a long-term investment. I plan to expand my goat farming by purchasing more and engaging in breeding, creating a sustainable source of income to address future financial obligations. This dual initiative reflects my commitment to securing both essential resources like water and a stable financial foundation through strategic investments in agriculture."
Esther's family
access_time 6 months ago
Esther received a $295 second payment.
"Securing enough water daily has been a constant struggle in our community, even with pipes installed up to our doorsteps. The high demand has led to water rationing, with our region getting water only on Mondays. Lacking sufficient reservoirs, we often resort to fetching from a distant river. To address this, I spent $225 of the second transfer on a 3000-liter water tank, greatly improving our water access. Additionally, I invested $112 in barbed wire and 2 chain links to fence around our field. Purchasing a $43 sack of maize has sustained my family of five, supporting us beyond subsistence farming and casual labor that I initially relied on. With the remaining amount, I allocated $20 for personal shopping, splitting it between my husband and me. Recognizing the upcoming needs of my three children in college and secondary school reporting in early January, I decided to save the remaining $50 to cover their transport costs when they return to school. This support from GiveDirectly has not only addressed immediate needs but also enhanced our overall well-being, and I am sincerely grateful."
Gladys's family
access_time 6 months ago
Gladys received a $295 second payment.
"Receiving the first transfer came at a crucial time when I had a significant debt for my children's school fees. With competing financial priorities, I deferred settling the fees but was relieved to clear the $120 arrears, $31 for the three pre-school children, and invested $28 in school uniforms with the second transfer. This ensured my children could complete the term without disruption. Additionally, I acquired 5 iron sheets for $66, intending to construct a new house for my two sons who had been sharing space with neighbors, hindering their study environment. I also bought a bed worth $38 for the extra room to provide a comfortable space for visitors. Allocating the remaining funds, I spent $70 on foodstuff, invested $22 in a 100-liter water tank, and dedicated $2 to toiletries. I incurred a $17 transport cost from the shopping center to my home, wisely saving the remaining amount for potential household emergencies. The support from GiveDirectly has not only relieved immediate financial burdens but also contributed to the well-being and education of my family."
water tank