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.
Faida's family
access_time 1 year ago
Faida received a $348 second payment.
"I used the $25480 to purchase 26 silver iron sheets at Matonomane which I used to build 2- bedroom house that my family had always wish to have since I have been living in a 1- bedroom house with all my children there .This is because of over- dependency on my husband who was working in Kilifi as a watchman and paid $80 monthly ,which could not sustain the family and give them a decent house that gives the parents and the children their privacy.I finished constructing the roof of the new house last week but the doors and windows have not yet been installed .My children are over excited over the new house that they have pleaded with me to shift to the new house despite that it does have doors nor window yet.I also paid school fees of $60 for my 2 class 8 sons who had a big debt that I was not sure on how I was going to settle it , but special thanks to Give Directly who has given me the support.lastly I bought 2 goats that I have kept them as a constant reminder of Give Directly ."
Gladys's family
access_time 1 year ago
Gladys received a $295 second payment.
"Receiving the first transfer came at a crucial time when I had a significant debt for my children's school fees. With competing financial priorities, I deferred settling the fees but was relieved to clear the $120 arrears, $31 for the three pre-school children, and invested $28 in school uniforms with the second transfer. This ensured my children could complete the term without disruption. Additionally, I acquired 5 iron sheets for $66, intending to construct a new house for my two sons who had been sharing space with neighbors, hindering their study environment. I also bought a bed worth $38 for the extra room to provide a comfortable space for visitors. Allocating the remaining funds, I spent $70 on foodstuff, invested $22 in a 100-liter water tank, and dedicated $2 to toiletries. I incurred a $17 transport cost from the shopping center to my home, wisely saving the remaining amount for potential household emergencies. The support from GiveDirectly has not only relieved immediate financial burdens but also contributed to the well-being and education of my family."
Salama's family
access_time 1 year ago
Salama received a $361 initial payment.
"The most profound change in my life since receiving the transfers is the realization of my long-term dream of owning land. I am now one step closer to achieving this dream after making the initial payment. The happiness I feel is immeasurable, and I extend my sincere gratitude to GiveDirectly for their noble act of assisting the less fortunate members of our society."
Elizabeth's family
access_time 1 year ago
Elizabeth received a $348 second payment.
"My son has been unwell for nearly a year now, experiencing multiple hospital visits without significant improvement. To cover medical expenses and purchase necessary medications, I allocated a substantial portion of my transfers, totaling $360. However, I am delighted to share that his health has recently shown signs of improvement, and I remain hopeful for his continued progress and full recovery. Additionally, I made a wise investment by purchasing a goat for $40, recognizing its potential as a valuable asset in times of emergency. Lastly, I decided to prioritize my own comfort and purchased a wooden bed for $50. Unlike the past, when I slept on an uncomfortable sisal twine bed, I can now enjoy a restful sleep. I express my deep gratitude to the financial transfers for assisting me in overcoming the challenges posed by my son's illness."
Esther's family
access_time 1 year ago
Esther received a $361 initial payment.
"I invested a portion of my funds in purchasing ten iron sheets for $85. These sheets were used to construct a new house, as the previous one was in a dilapidated state. Recognizing the importance of comfortable sleeping arrangements, I also bought two mattresses and a wooden bed. The mattresses cost me $130 in total, while the bed amounted to $75. Finally, after enduring years of sleeping on a sisal twine bed, I am overjoyed to have a comfortable place to rest. Additionally, I allocated $80 to pay the school fees for my six children. Five of them are enrolled in primary school, while one is attending secondary school. The remaining balance of $180 was utilized to purchase food and clothes for my children. This financial boost has significantly improved our quality of life, and I am incredibly grateful for the positive impact it has had."
Serah's family
access_time 1 year ago
Serah received a $361 second payment.
"GiveDirectly has proven to be a reliable source of support, and I encourage them to continue their impactful work, ensuring that those in need receive the help they truly deserve."
Safari's family
access_time 1 year ago
Safari received a $23 fourteenth payment.
"My income from cutting and selling chewing sticks is limited, and the cash transfers have been a relief in easing the financial stress. I've always desired to own goats, but financial constraints, such as the school fees for my six children, have held me back. Before the cash transfers, I had no livestock, but now I've been able to start with three hens. Despite the financial constraints, my goal is to have at least six goats before the transfers end in the next few years. I believe that through livestock keeping, I can create wealth to support my children's education."
Sidi's family
access_time 1 year ago
Sidi received a $23 fourteenth payment.
"Before the cash transfers come to an end, my goal is to have a new house. Our current dwelling is in poor condition, with a corroded roof that lets in water during rain, making the space uncomfortably cold. To achieve this, I plan to continue saving part of the cash transfers through my self-help group. When the group dissolves after one year, I intend to use the savings to purchase building materials like iron sheets and building poles. Additionally, I wish to continue buying goats; with one already acquired, I aim to accumulate at least five. As they reproduce, I can sell them to support the ongoing needs of my family."
Kadii's family
access_time 1 year ago
Kadii received a $23 twenty-second payment.
"Looking ahead to next year, I plan to use the upcoming two transfers to buy new school uniforms for my four children in upper primary classes. Some of their current uniforms are tattered, and the school has requested a change to new clothing upon resumption, or else they will be sent back home. Furthermore, when the cash transfers end, I aim to have bought goats. Financial constraints in recent months, such as covering food and school fees, hindered me from acquiring goats. I am determined to have purchased at least some goats by the end of the transfer period, as they will play a crucial role in supporting my children's education. When they finish primary school and need funds for junior high school enrollment, the goats will prove invaluable."
Santa's family
access_time 1 year ago
Santa received a $23 twenty-second payment.
"Throughout the time I've been receiving the cash transfers, I've always desired to own livestock, specifically goats. However, household constraints like school fees for my three children and food expenses have always been obstacles. Moving forward, my goal is to start keeping livestock. With the children on holiday, funds won't be constrained by tuition for the next two months. I aim to buy at least two goats. Even after the children resume school, I hope to continue saving for this venture so that by the time the cash transfers end, I can have at least five of them. These goats could be exchanged for cattle in the future as they reproduce, assisting me in farming activities like plowing."