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.
Caren's family
access_time 1 year ago
Caren received a $295 second payment.
"Our main goal is to set up a retail shop, aiming to enhance our financial stability and subsequently cover the upcoming school fees for our two children who will be joining form one next year. I plan to utilize my third transfer to realize this objective."
Sheilla's family
access_time 1 year ago
Sheilla received a $295 second payment.
"My family consists of my husband, our five children, and myself. While my husband relies on farming for our livelihood, I am engaged in a fruit-selling business at the center. Upon receiving our second transfer, my husband and I made the decision to invest it in constructing a new house for our growing children. The urgency arose as they were all grown, and sharing our existing small house had become impractical. Financial constraints, particularly due to directing our earnings toward school fees, had previously hindered us from expanding our living space. With the transfer, we spent $252 for the construction, bought two goats worth $108, settled a $30 debt, and used $60 to purchase essential foodstuffs. I am delighted that our children now have a more spacious and comfortable place to call home."
Maria's family
access_time 1 year ago
Maria received a $295 second payment.
"My husband and I depend on both farming and our small kiosk for our livelihood, supporting our family of three children. With the second transfer we received, my husband and I decided to spend it towards renovating our house, investing $310 to address the challenges posed by its mud floor, making it easier to clean and enhancing our living conditions. Additionally, we used $85 to increase the stock in our shop, aiming to boost our income. We also set aside $45 to purchase a sack of maize. This renovation had long been delayed due to our responsibilities, especially with regards to school fees. The positive impact of these changes in our living environment brings us great joy and gratitude."
Gilbert's family
access_time 1 year ago
Gilbert received a $295 second payment.
"The organization does well in providing support to individuals without discrimination, extending to both the elderly and the young. The inclusive nature of their assistance ensured that everyone, regardless of age, received the support they needed. Thus far, the organization has demonstrated effectiveness in their approach, leaving no room for discriminatory practices."
Joseph's family
access_time 1 year ago
Joseph received a $295 second payment.
"The unrestricted transfer allowed me to prioritize addressing my immediate need, which was building a house. The flexibility of using the funds without specific instructions was immensely helpful. The positive effects of this assistance extended beyond just immediate relief, as I was also able to secure enough food for myself. Our gratitude for the positive changes brought about by this support is profound. Thus far, I haven't identified any areas that require correction."
Charles's family
access_time 1 year ago
Charles received a $295 second payment.
"After facing recent land conflicts in the village, many residents, including myself, have been marking boundaries to avoid disputes. I hired a surveyor for $100 to measure and mark my land, prompting an immediate purchase of $78 barbed wire for fencing. Having a loan from a participating Sacco, I had defaulted for months with a remaining balance of $180. With the second transfer, I made the final payment, enabling me to continue saving and rebuilding my creditworthiness with Sacco. Additionally, I supported my sister financially, contributing $50 for her son's circumcision rites, a relief for her as a single mother. I saved the remaining $42 for potential emergencies and household needs for my family of 8, bridging gaps between transfers. This support from GiveDirectly not only addresses immediate needs but also empowers me to manage financial responsibilities effectively, fostering positive changes in my community and family."
Kobilo's family
access_time 1 year ago
Kobilo received a $295 second payment.
"In my perspective, GiveDirectly has been remarkably supportive, not only in sensitization and information-sharing but also in its approach, which fostered a comfortable environment for everyone to freely communicate and ask questions regarding the transfers. The friendly approach experienced in our village raises the hope that similar positive interactions are occurring in other villages yet to receive such support. Personally, I have nothing against the entire program, only expressing hope that its conclusion may not come too soon, given the positive impact it has had on the community."
Christina's family
access_time 1 year ago
Christina received a $295 second payment.
"GiveDirectly impressively executes its job, ensuring that everyone enrolled receives the same transfer simultaneously, underscoring the organization's commitment to fairness. The discipline exhibited by the officers, along with their readiness to thoroughly explain every detail without fatigue, adds to the positive experience. In comparison to other aids observed, GiveDirectly's approach stands out as the best. The hope is that this commendable work continues in other villages. Personally, I have no reservations about the approach, as I comprehensively understood everything and chose to enroll without any coercion or exchange of incentives."
Esther's family
access_time 1 year ago
Esther received a $295 second payment.
"GiveDirectly stands out among other non-governmental organizations we've encountered, and I must say it's doing an exceptional job. What sets it apart is the unique approach of providing us the freedom to decide how to spend the money we receive, which is unlike any other organization. This autonomy has made a significant difference in our lives, allowing us to make choices that best suit our individual needs and circumstances. Providing additional guidance on financial literacy and sustainable investment options could enhance the long-term impact of the support they provide, ensuring recipients are equipped to make informed decisions for their future."
Sharon's family
access_time 1 year ago
Sharon received a $295 second payment.
"Taking care of my family of four, and providing a balanced diet is sometimes challenging. With the second transfer, I boosted our food supply by purchasing a $43 sack of maize, which we still use. Additionally, I invested in 2 chain links ($30 each) and a $26 barbed wire to complete the fencing of our compound, preventing invasion by stray livestock and facilitating grass growth. Allocating $150, I bought a bull for breeding purposes, eliminating the need to pay for bull services. Addressing my children's needs, I spent $50 on clothing, including two pairs of shoes and essential household items. I also used $40 for tithe as an expression of my gratitude to God for this provision, contributed $10 to a fundraiser for my sister's event, and saved the remaining $65 for labor charges to complete the compound fence. The support has not only addressed immediate needs but also contributed to the overall well-being of my family."