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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over 1 year ago
Wilson
received a $315 second payment.
"Upon receiving my second transfer from GiveDirectly, I seized the opportunity to tackle a long-standing challenge on my land. With part of the funds, I decided to invest in fencing to safeguard my crops from intruders and wild animals. Financial constraints had previously hindered my efforts in this endeavor, as I work as a motorbike rider. Currently, I am still single, and despite facing financial difficulties, I remained resolute in improving my situation. Having received $450, I made a significant investment in fencing my land, which has been a crucial step in enhancing its protection where I used $420. Additionally, I spent $30 to purchase essential food supplies. The support I received from GiveDirectly has had an extraordinary and unexpected impact on my life. Being able to invest in securing my land and meeting basic needs has brought immense relief and positive transformation to my existence. I am sincerely grateful for the assistance I received, as it has significantly improved my livelihood."
(Occupation: Motorcycle or bicycle taxi)
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over 1 year ago
Fahani
received a $372 second payment.
"After receiving the second transfer, I invested in a sewing machine for myself, a long-desired dream that I couldn't afford until now. Hiring one every month was draining my resources, but now I have my own, and I can keep all the earnings for myself. This means I can fully provide for my family of three without any financial worries. The burden of paying commissions is lifted, and I can focus on growing my sewing business. In addition, I used $105 of the cash transfer to purchase three goats. These are not just animals; they are assets that can offer security during times of financial constraints. They are well-suited to thrive in our region, making them a practical investment. As my spouse and I both work hard to make ends meet, having these goats will give us some peace of mind and a fallback option. Lastly, I ensured my family's immediate needs were met by buying food. My spouse's income as a taxi driver may not be huge, but with my new sewing business and the goats, we now have a better chance of building a more stable and prosperous future together."
(Occupation: Motorcycle or bicycle taxi)
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over 1 year ago
Zuleah
received a $386 second payment.
"I hold a heartfelt aspiration to launch my own business, centered around selling fresh fruits and vegetables. Around September, with the little cash my supportive spouse has been giving me, I plan to set my entrepreneurial journey in motion. I am hopeful that my small business will grow into something truly remarkable, not just for me but for the people I serve. With hard work and perseverance, I am excited to embark on this journey and turn my dreams into a fruitful reality."
(Occupation: Motorcycle or bicycle taxi)
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over 1 year ago
Agnes
received a $316 third payment.
"Upon receiving the first transfer, I had carefully planned how to improve our living conditions after relocating from our original home with my family of 8, including my mother, due to community conflicts caused by cattle rustling. We had been cramped in a single temporary flat-roofed room, which was too small for us and provided no privacy. Out of the most recent transfer, I spent $276 on purchasing all the necessary construction materials. I was relieved to later spend $50 on labor to construct a new house with two spacious rooms that we are currently living in. This improvement brought us much-needed comfort after enduring a long and devastating struggle in a small room. To further enhance our living situation, I invested $40 in buying a large bed to supplement the small one we were using. Now, we sleep comfortably and wake up feeling refreshed for our daily routine. Additionally, I used $60 to buy food from the nearby shopping center, with a $2 motorcycle taxi fare to transport it home. Furthermore, I spent $30 on acquiring a goat to add to the 8 we already had, as we had previously lost a herd of over 50 cows due to theft and more than 100 goats, which was a painful experience that took me time to recover from. However, with the support from GiveDirectly, my hope has been restored, and I feel it has saved me from the brink of depression."
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over 1 year ago
Christine
received a $317 third payment.
"In my opinion, GD's provision of the transfer has been truly commendable, empowering our community and paving the way for significant investments. I am very grateful for the support, through it, we have ventured into substantial investments that promise a brighter future for us all."
(Occupation: Motorcycle or bicycle taxi)
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over 1 year ago
Boaz
received a $317 third payment.
"Upon receiving the second transfer, I used it to clear the pending debt of $200 for the motorcycle I had recently acquired. This enabled me to operate the motorcycle freely and enjoy its benefits fully, as I offer transport services to the community and commute between my farms in the nearby village. Additionally, I allocated part of the funds to renovate my existing house, which was originally constructed using wooden poles and frames. I replaced the damaged wooden parts with metallic bars, ensuring enhanced strength and durability for the house. The renovation expenses totaled $150, covering the replacement of dusty floors with cement. Utilizing leftover materials and additional purchases worth $50, I constructed a small kitchen. I spent the remaining $50 on buying foodstuff for my family of three, generously serving us for over a month as we worked on sourcing additional food supplies."
(Occupation: Motorcycle or bicycle taxi)
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over 1 year ago
Caren
received a $373 second payment.
"My aspiration was to buy a motorcycle to provide my husband with a reliable source of income. He used to rely on a rented motorcycle, which often left us with little earnings due to the tough economic times we faced. However, financial constraints made it challenging to realize this dream, as I earned a living by selling eggs while he worked as a motorcycle rider. Fortunately, my situation improved when I received a second transfer. With this money, I was able to purchase a second-hand motorcycle worth $420, which brought us hope for a more stable income. In addition to the motorcycle, I used a portion of the funds to pay off a $40 debt that had been lingering. This brought some relief to our financial burden. The remaining amount was wisely used to buy essential food supplies for our family. The positive impact of the transfer from GiveDirectly on my standard of living cannot be overstated. As a married individual blessed with two children, I am overjoyed and deeply grateful for the significant improvement it has brought to our lives. The motorcycle has allowed my husband to break free from the cycle of dependence on rented vehicles, and it has given us the opportunity to work towards a more prosperous future."
(Occupation: Motorcycle or bicycle taxi)
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over 1 year ago
Anderson
received a $24 sixth payment.
"With the anticipation of a bountiful harvest that will guarantee ample food security, the burdensome task of purchasing expensive food from shops will soon be eliminated. This upcoming abundance opens up an opportunity for me to channel my monthly funds into investing in livestock, particularly goats, which are known for their ease of rearing and cost-effectiveness compared to other livestock types. My primary goal is to acquire bulls for myself, which I plan to achieve by selling some of the goats. Having bulls on hand will significantly reduce my farming expenses as they will assist me in preparing and cultivating the land during the rainy season."
(Occupation: Motorcycle or bicycle taxi)
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over 1 year ago
Jumwa
received a $373 second payment.
"One of my top priorities was securing my children's education, and I used $150 to pay for one of my sons in high school fees for the entire year. This ensured he could focus on his studies without the burden of worrying about fees. Additionally, I paid $40 for my other four children's primary school tuition fees, ensuring they too could continue their education uninterrupted. Education was the key to a better future, and I was determined to provide this opportunity for my children despite our financial struggles. Understanding the importance of skills and vocational training, I enrolled my elder son in a driving course that cost $180 for six months. This decision was an investment in his future employability and self-reliance. I had faith that he would gain valuable skills and experiences that could open up new opportunities for him. Moreover, I repaired a motorcycle that had been our family's sole source of income. As jobless parents, my spouse and I heavily relied on the financial contributions of our children. By fixing the motorcycle, we aimed to revitalize our income source, allowing us to provide for our family of nine more independently."
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over 1 year ago
Charo
received a $387 second payment.
"First and foremost, I used $180 to clear a debt I owed to a friend. This had been a source of constant worry and stress, but now I could finally breathe freely and regain my peace of mind. With the weight of debt lifted off my shoulders, I could focus on building a brighter future for my family. The next step was investing in a dairy cow, spending around $150 on it. This decision promised a steady supply of milk for domestic use and the potential for commercial purposes. As my dairy business grew, it would offer a reliable income stream and contribute to a stable livelihood for my family. Additionally, I repaired my motorcycle, which had broken down earlier and had been my primary source of income. With it back in working order, I could resume my transportation services and provide for my family's needs. Lastly, I made sure to buy clothes and food for my three family members. Seeing them well-fed and clothed filled my heart with happiness and gratitude."
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