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.
Sylvia's family
access_time 1 year ago
Sylvia received a $309 third payment.
"Receiving the transfers was a significant moment for my family. We immediately set out to address our most pressing needs and invest in our future. Education is paramount for us, so I allocated $200 towards school fees for my daughter in grade 11. Ensuring she receives a quality education is a priority, and the transfers provided the means to support her academic journey. With $100, we purchased maize, which not only contributes to our food security but also serves as a potential source of income through the sale of surplus harvests. The remaining funds were used to acquire household goods and clothing for my children. Providing for their basic needs and ensuring their comfort is essential to me as a parent. As a family of six, we depend on farming to earn a living. The transfers have provided a financial boost, enabling us to meet our immediate needs and invest in our future prosperity. I am grateful for the assistance we have received through the transfers. They have provided support during challenging times and empowered us to pursue our goals with renewed confidence."
Becky's family
access_time 1 year ago
Becky received a $309 third payment.
"I appreciate the autonomy that GiveDirectly's approach to unconditional cash transfers provides to individuals within the community. By allowing recipients to decide how to utilize the transfers based on their own priorities and needs, this approach ensures that the assistance is tailored to the specific circumstances of each individual or family. While the current transfers have undoubtedly made a significant impact on many lives, I agree that additional transfers could further enhance the positive outcomes experienced by the community. By providing ongoing support or additional transfers, GiveDirectly could continue to address the evolving needs of individuals and families over time. Expanding the range or frequency of transfers could enable recipients to pursue not only immediate needs but also longer-term goals, such as investing in education, starting small businesses, or improving housing conditions. This could contribute to sustained improvements in overall well-being and economic stability within the community. Overall, while the current approach of unconditional cash transfers is commendable, I believe that exploring opportunities to provide additional support or transfers could further amplify the positive impact on the lives of individuals and families in the community."
Jackson's family
access_time 1 year ago
Jackson received a $309 second payment.
"In the upcoming year, my primary goal is to ensure that all nine of my children have access to education by completing the payment of their school fees. As someone who faced the challenges of dropping out of school early in my own life, I am deeply committed to providing my children with the opportunity to pursue their education to the fullest. My son, currently in grade 10, requires $320 to complete the academic year. This investment in his education is crucial for his future prospects and opportunities. To achieve this goal, I plan to utilize the profits from our grocery business. By allocating a portion of our business earnings towards education, I am prioritizing the long-term well-being and success of my children. Ensuring that my children receive a quality education is a top priority for me and my family. I firmly believe that education is the key to unlocking their potential and empowering them to achieve their dreams. I am fully committed to supporting my son and all of my children in their educational pursuits, and I will do whatever it takes to ensure that they have the resources they need to succeed."
Pauline's family
access_time 1 year ago
Pauline received a $309 second payment.
"When I received my transfers, I made sure to prioritize my family's needs. With $50, I bought a goat as an investment for my family. I spent the remaining amount on my children's school fees and requirements for their education. As a family of eleven depending on farming for our livelihood, we often face challenges due to adverse climatic changes, especially with unpredictable seasonal rains leading to losses. The transfers have been a blessing during these tough times, providing needed financial cushion. Thanks to this support, my children have been able to continue their education, which is incredibly important to me. Additionally, we have been able to acquire an asset, which adds to our long-term stability. Despite the challenges, I am grateful for the assistance we have received and remain determined to make the most of it. We are continuously looking for ways to adapt to the changing climate and diversify our income sources beyond farming. Our resilience and resourcefulness will continue to guide us through these difficulties, and I am hopeful for a brighter future for my family."
Wesley's family
access_time 1 year ago
Wesley received a $308 third payment.
"My plan is to continue maize crop farming and maintain my contract with Kenya Seed, but this time I'll use my own capital for production to avoid the stress of debt in case of crop failure due to rainfall uncertainties. Any income generated will be used to cover family needs, including school fees for my four children. Additionally, I plan to engage in commercial maize production for our domestic consumption, which will ensure food security for my family."
Zainab's family
access_time 1 year ago
Zainab received a $24 eighteenth payment.
"Having established a vegetable-selling stand through the cash transfers, my next objective is to open a kiosk shop in the village. Recognizing the market demand for fast-moving goods in this community, I aim to capitalize on this opportunity and create a sustainable livelihood for my family. To kickstart this venture, I estimate that a minimum of $90 will be required. I plan to accumulate the necessary capital through savings from the existing business and the ongoing cash transfers. I am optimistic that by September of this year, I will have gathered enough funds to launch the kiosk shop successfully."
Mwenda's family
access_time 1 year ago
Mwenda received a $24 eighteenth payment.
"My ultimate goal is to be able to support the education of my four children and provide daily meals for them. I am glad the cash transfers have played a crucial role in supporting these aspects over the past few years, but I am aware that they will not be here for the long run. To secure a sustainable source of income, I have set a goal for the coming year and beyond—to establish a livelihood through livestock ownership, specifically by rearing chickens and goats. As they multiply, I intend to sell them, creating a continuous source of funds that will enable me to meet the ongoing needs of my children."
Katana's family
access_time 1 year ago
Katana received a $363 second payment.
"Getting money from GiveDirectly has been a real blessing for us. The cash transfer they provide helps us cover our basic needs and gives us a sense of stability and I feel nothing should be changed ."
Nakoroi's family
access_time 1 year ago
Nakoroi received a $308 second payment.
"The first time I heard about GiveDirectly transfers was from people in Sandai and Loboi location. I wondered if they would come to help us too, giving such a big amount. I couldn't believe it when my neighbor told me there was a meeting with GiveDirectly people. I knew we could benefit like those in Sandai and Loboi, who are now wealthy with good houses. I even started planning how to use the money before I was told I'd get it. I was so happy and excited. Those who know how to manage money are now rich because of GiveDirectly. I thank them for helping me and making my dreams come true. My advice to GiveDirectly is to keep helping all counties in Kenya. People are suffering, and I pray that God continues to grow your company so it never fails, and you can keep helping others."
Harrison's family
access_time 1 year ago
Harrison received a $137 initial payment.
"It was around 6:30 PM when I received a message notification on my phone, and upon checking, I realized it was from GiveDirectly confirming the receipt of my first transfer. At that moment, I was with my spouse and our three kids. I hurried to show her the message, and we shared an exciting moment together. I had no doubts about its authenticity since the indicated amount was exact as promised, and the sender's identity matched the explanation we had received during the initial sensitization meeting. Despite our happiness, we couldn't collect the money the same day, even though all the plans were set. Instead, we visited the nearby shopping center the following morning."