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.
Paulinah's family
access_time 6 months ago
Paulinah received a $344 third payment.
"GiveDirectly is an honest organization that fulfilled all their promises about the transfers. Their officers handled enrollment without involving any other party, making the process free and fair. By giving us the money directly from donors, they ensured it reached a larger number of targeted individuals. Unlike other organizations where support only gets to a few people, with GiveDirectly, almost everyone benefits except a few who did not qualify. I would encourage the organization to consider giving job opportunities to our educated children, as most are jobless. This would also contribute to the overall growth of the targeted communities."
Jane's family
access_time 6 months ago
Jane enrolled.
"The recent flash floods that invaded our village brought a lot of destruction to my family I lost my 1 acre piece of land which I planted Maize like one months before the floods all the plants was swept away, my poultry business was brought down because all the chicken died and some were swept away by the floods my house was also destroyed iam now living in a small mud wall house with my family due to lack of finance to renovate the other house. I am now struggling to cater for my family of 7 single handedly depending on casual labour and charcoal burning which is very uncertain because the wages are not enough for my family."
Mercyline's family
access_time 6 months ago
Mercyline received a $153 initial payment.
"The transfer came as a relief to us. My two secondary school children were due to report back to school, but I did not have any money for their fees. One had arrears of $190 and the other $150, and they would not have been accepted back without at least a partial payment. This worried me greatly because I could not bear seeing them at home and missing school. The transfer came just in time. I immediately deposited $50 into each of their bank accounts for their fees. We were also struggling with food since casual employment was hard to find after most of the farms in our area were destroyed by floods. Securing a meal was a daily challenge; we could only have porridge in the morning and hope for a better meal in the evening, relying on the few surviving vegetables on my farm. I could sell it to ensure my children did not go hungry. With the transfer, I used $50 to buy food, allowing us to have three meals a day. I also used the remaining $50 to lease half an acre of land in an area unaffected by floods, where I planted maize for both family consumption and to sell the surplus to support my children's education."
Francis's family
access_time 6 months ago
Francis received a $139 initial payment.
"The biggest difference in my life since I started receiving transfers is that I no longer worry constantly about my children going hungry. With the GiveDirectly transfer, I was able to buy two sacks of maize, ensuring we can now eat three meals a day. This food will last us until we receive the next transfer, and it brings me immense joy as my children will be well-fed and happy. Before this, we depended on my wife to find casual work, which was not always guaranteed. Sometimes we lacked food completely, forcing my children to go around to our neighbours to borrow food. This situation caused me a lot of stress, but I could not help because I could not provide for them due to my disability. Additionally, I am so happy that my wife can take a bit of a break from the constant struggles and stress she faces while fending for the family. Seeing her have some relief is a huge weight off my shoulders."
Sofia's family
access_time 6 months ago
Sofia received a $421 second payment.
"In the coming year, my main focus is to ensure my children receive a good education, paving the way for them to become responsible individuals. I plan to allocate more resources towards their school fees, books, and uniforms, ensuring they have everything they need to succeed. By prioritizing their education now, I hope to instill in them a love for learning and a strong sense of responsibility. As they progress in their studies, I will continue to support and encourage them, hoping that in the years to come, they will grow into well-educated, responsible adults who can make positive contributions to our community. My ultimate goal is to see them graduate and secure stable jobs, breaking the cycle of poverty and creating a brighter future for our family."
Frederick's family
access_time 6 months ago
Frederick received a $421 second payment.
"I am a retired civil servant, now focused on poultry and goat keeping to support my family of seven children. Recently, I received a second transfer of $550 from GiveDirectly, and I carefully allocated this money to address our immediate needs and improve our living conditions. First and foremost, I used $150 to pay college fees for my son. Education is crucial, and supporting my children's studies is a top priority for me. Following that, I faced a pressing issue when my toilet was damaged during the heavy rains last season. With $250 from the transfer, I promptly constructed a new toilet. Having a functional toilet is not just about convenience but also about health and dignity for my family. With $100, I ensured we had enough food to sustain us, allowing me to concentrate on developing our poultry and goat farming. The remaining $47 was wisely spent on household items that were needed, ensuring our home was comfortable and functional."
Loice's family
access_time 6 months ago
Loice received a $421 initial payment.
"Since receiving payments from GiveDirectly, my life has taken a dramatic turn for the better. Before, we faced immense challenges; there were times when hunger haunted us for days on end, at least a day per week, and our children could miss school because of hunger. Now, with the financial support, we have food security, ensuring that no one in my family goes hungry anymore. My children attend school without the distraction of empty stomachs. One of the first things that stood out was adding an extra room to my one-room mud-wall house so that my growing family could live comfortably and with dignity. I could only dream of it before, but now it has become a reality, thanks to GiveDirectly's support."
Rahab's family
access_time 6 months ago
Rahab received a $405 second payment.
"I am a mother of four primary school children. To provide for my family, I manage a small kiosk business while my husband works as a driver. Recently, I received a second transfer of $530, and I paid off a debt of $102 at a shop where I had taken stock for sale and a sack of maize for our food. It was a huge relief to be debt-free and have a fresh start. To ensure the success of my kiosk, I invested $200 in a variety of stocks. This decision has made my customers happier because they can find what they need, which has boosted my sales and income. Additionally, I spent $36 on a new phone after my old one started giving me problems. Communication is crucial for running my business efficiently. With my children's education as a priority, I allocated $130 to pay their school fees, ensuring they can continue learning without interruption. Finally, I used the remaining $59 to buy food for my family, ensuring everyone had enough to eat. These investments have not only improved our daily lives but have also set us on a path toward a more stable and secure future."
Changawa's family
access_time 6 months ago
Changawa received a $421 second payment.
"In my opinion, GiveDirectly excels in transparency and inclusivity throughout their processes. From the outset, they clearly outline how transfers would be distributed and ensure that recipients understand every step. During meetings, they actively seek our input, making us feel valued and involved in decision-making. This transparency builds trust and empowers us to voice concerns or suggestions, knowing they will be heard. However, one area for improvement could be enhancing follow-up support. While initial assistance is comprehensive, ongoing guidance or resources to ensure long-term impact could further empower recipients. This could include workshops on financial planning or access to skill-building programs to enhance sustainability beyond the immediate aid. Overall, GiveDirectly's commitment to transparency and community engagement is commendable."
Safari's family
access_time 6 months ago
Safari received a $421 second payment.
"GiveDirectly did an excellent job in every aspect of its operations. From the very beginning, they ensured that everything was clear and transparent. They organized meetings where we were all informed about the process and what to expect. This transparency helped build trust within the community. Furthermore, during these meetings, we were given numerous opportunities to voice our opinions and concerns, which made us feel valued and respected. The staff was always approachable and willing to listen, ensuring everyone’s views were considered. This inclusive approach not only made the process smooth but also fostered a sense of community and collective responsibility."