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.
Hellen's family
access_time 1 year ago
Hellen received a $277 second payment.
"The outlook for this year appears promising, as we have commenced with rainfall, instilling hope for favorable conditions for farming. With this positive start, I am determined to channel my best efforts into cultivating my two acres of land. My plan is to cultivate maize and beans, both for commercial and domestic purposes. To guarantee high productivity, I am committed to executing all farm activities in a timely manner and ensuring that I have all the necessary inputs. The income generated from this farming venture will play a crucial role in supporting the education of our five children, who are at different educational levels. This strategic approach not only aligns with my farming goals but also serves as a means to secure a brighter future for our family by investing in the education of our children."
Susan's family
access_time 1 year ago
Susan received a $277 second payment.
"The approach adopted by GiveDirectly is truly outstanding, and the assistance provided by the organization has been nothing short of remarkable. Lives, including my own, have been uplifted through the support and opportunities presented by the transfers. The ability to acquire assets has brought a sense of security and stability to my life, for which I am genuinely grateful. In contemplating the effectiveness of GiveDirectly's approach, I find that everything is fine as it is. The unconditionality of the transfers and the autonomy they give individuals in deciding how to use the funds are key strengths. I appreciate the organization's commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those it serves, and I have no desire for any changes as the current approach has proven to be highly beneficial."
Patience's family
access_time 1 year ago
Patience received a $277 second payment.
"Givedirectly has been a transformative force in uplifting lives through its direct transfers. Personally, I have harnessed the opportunity to put my hairdressing skills into practice by establishing a successful salon business with the financial support I have received. The impact of these transfers has been substantial, allowing me to not only pursue my passion but also contribute meaningfully to my family's livelihood. From my perspective, the current approach and workings of GiveDirectly have been more than satisfactory; nothing needs to change. The direct and impactful support they provide has created a positive ripple effect, empowering individuals to turn their aspirations into reality."
Doreen's family
access_time 1 year ago
Doreen received a $277 second payment.
"In the coming year, I am excited about venturing into maize farming on my 2-acre piece of land. To fund this agricultural endeavor, I will allocate a capital of $200, and I am prepared to work various casual jobs to raise this amount. The primary aim is to ensure a steady and sustainable food source for my family of four. With meticulous planning and dedication, I intend to use the capital to acquire essential resources such as quality seeds, fertilizers, and other inputs necessary for successful maize cultivation. The prospect of transforming the barren land into a productive maize field brings a sense of hope and purpose. Despite the challenges that may arise, I am determined to overcome them through hard work and resilience. This venture is not only about meeting immediate nutritional needs but also about laying the foundation for a more self-reliant and secure future. I am optimistic that the fruits of my labor will not only nourish my family of four but also contribute to an improved livelihood. The vision is to see the land flourish, yielding a bountiful harvest that sustains us and fosters a sense of accomplishment and self-sufficiency."
Markson's family
access_time 1 year ago
Markson received a $111 initial payment.
"I remember clearly being occupied on the farm when I heard my phone buzz with a message. Upon checking, I discovered that the anticipated transfer from GiveDirectly had finally come through. It became the happiest day of my life, filling me with immense joy and gratitude. The excitement was overwhelming, knowing that this transfer marked the beginning of realizing my long-held dream of fencing my land, which I had been unable to achieve earlier due to financial constraints. The arrival of the funds brought great happiness into our lives, and we will always hold a profound sense of appreciation in our hearts."
Caren's family
access_time 1 year ago
Caren received a $277 third payment.
"In the upcoming year, I have aspirations to venture into a retail business, aiming to provide support for my family of seven. To kickstart this entrepreneurial endeavor, I am planning to use a capital of $1000. This financial investment will be strategically employed to cover initial expenses such as acquiring inventory, setting up the business, and ensuring a smooth start for the retail venture. To further support this business initiative, I am considering taking a loan from the Sacco. This additional financial assistance will not only supplement the capital but also provide the necessary resources to ensure the success and sustainability of the retail business. The goal is to establish a source of income that will contribute to the financial stability of my family. By delving into the retail sector, I aim to create opportunities for growth and prosperity. With careful planning and the right financial support, I am optimistic that this venture will prove to be a stepping stone towards a more secure and prosperous future for my family."
Paulinah's family
access_time 1 year ago
Paulinah received a $277 second payment.
"The transformative impact of GiveDirectly's approach is evident in the positive changes it brings to individuals and families. The unconditionality of the transfers provides recipients with the autonomy to decide how to allocate the funds, allowing for a tailored approach that addresses specific needs and challenges. This flexibility contributes to uplifting lives in meaningful ways. As for my own experience, everything has been fine, and the assistance from GiveDirectly has been instrumental in boosting my salary from the cooking job. The additional financial support has not only alleviated immediate burdens but has also provided a foundation for greater financial stability for my family of three. The approach of GiveDirectly, with its focus on direct and unconditional support, stands out as an effective way to empower individuals to make decisions that best suit their unique circumstances. The positive impact on my financial situation is a testament to the effectiveness of this approach, and I am grateful for the support that has contributed to improving the quality of life for myself and my family."
Kabon's family
access_time 1 year ago
Kabon received a $277 second payment.
"GiveDirectly has played a crucial role in alleviating hunger in our community by providing families with the means to secure food. The transfers empower individuals, granting them the autonomy to decide how best to address their specific needs and challenges. This flexibility is a significant strength, allowing recipients to tailor the support to their unique circumstances. Moreover, the impact extends beyond addressing immediate hunger. Families have utilized the transfers to construct houses, creating safer and more stable living environments. Additionally, income-generating activities have been initiated, fostering economic sustainability and empowering individuals to build a more secure future. As it stands, everything about GiveDirectly's approach seems effective and positive. The combination of addressing immediate needs and promoting long-term sustainability through income-generating activities is commendable. The autonomy given to recipients ensures that the support is meaningful and tailored to individual circumstances. From my perspective, there is no need for any changes; the organization's approach has proven successful in making a positive impact on the lives of those it serves."
Patrick's family
access_time 1 year ago
Patrick received a $338 second payment.
"As a retired teacher with limited resources, pushing my seven children through university, secondary, and primary schools was an uphill battle. I directed a significant portion of the funds, approximately $320, towards settling school fees for my kids. This ensured that they could continue their education without disruption, allowing me to fulfill my role as the breadwinner for our family of nine. The relief was immense; knowing that I could support my children's academic journeys and witness them pursue nursing careers filled me with pride. Realizing the need for diversification, I allocated $60 to revive my struggling retail shop business. Initially on the verge of collapse, the injection of funds breathed new life into the venture. With careful management, I have managed to turn the business around, generating a profit of $2 where none existed before. This additional income has brought a sense of stability to our household. The remaining cash was wisely used to purchase sufficient food supplies, ensuring that my family's basic needs were met for an extended period of time. The unconditional cash transfer has not only eased the financial burden but has also given us a chance at a more secure and hopeful future."
Sofia's family
access_time 1 year ago
Sofia received a $338 initial payment.
"At around 3 PM, amidst a heavy downpour, I rushed back from the shop where I had just recharged my phone after days of power outages. As I retrieved my phone, drenched but hopeful, a message notification caught my eye. With a mixture of anticipation and disbelief, I confirmed that GiveDirectly had indeed sent money my way. Overwhelmed with joy, I immediately called my spouse, who was away at the time, and shared the incredible news. The realization that we could now embark on building a new home, especially given the struggles with our current dilapidated one, intensified the joy. The previous dwelling, worn and weary, had proven especially challenging during the rainy seasons. The unconditional cash transfer became not just a financial boon but also a promise of shelter and security."