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.
Zawadi's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Zawadi received a $24 fourteenth payment.
"I am presently undergoing medical treatment and frequent check-ups due to my diagnosis of ulcers. This health condition has rendered me unable to work, and I have come to rely on my sons for support. However, they often struggle to provide for me, as they have larger families to care for. Participating in this program has been an enormous relief, as it has alleviated my struggle to access necessary medical treatment. My primary goal is to ensure that I can receive timely medical care and afford a balanced diet as recommended by my doctor. Achieving this would have been a significant challenge for me, but thanks to the financial support I've received, accessing medical treatment has become more manageable. I am also considering the prospect of purchasing some goats to raise. To facilitate this, I have joined a local savings group where I contribute $10. When my turn comes to receive the money, I plan to use it to buy goats, allow them to reproduce and become valuable assets that I can rely on in times of financial need."
Sidi's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Sidi received a $24 fourteenth payment.
"My objective is to acquire additional goats to raise on my homestead. In our region, livestock ownership is regarded as a promising venture, and I am eager to build my herd. Ultimately, I plan to sell these animals and embark on a new viable project, like starting a shop. Previously, I primarily engaged in manual labor, specifically charcoal production and sales, which had detrimental effects on my health. After years of this occupation, I now find myself frequently under medical treatment. Given my current lack of a stable income source, I view my growing goat herd as a reliable financial fallback option. At present, I own a total of eighteen goats along with some sheep, which I consider a significant investment. My plan is to buy more livestock with the intention of selling them to start a new income-generating project."
Dama's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Dama received a $24 fourteenth payment.
"For many years, my primary means of making a living was through the production and sale of charcoal. However, this livelihood was far from dependable. It demanded considerable physical strength, which, given my age, I am no longer capable of sustaining. Now, faced with the absence of a reliable source of income, I have a plan to secure my financial future: I intend to invest in more goats, raise them, and capitalize on their reproduction to generate income. Currently, I am the proud owner of ten goats and a few cows that I am diligently caring for. These animals provide me with a financial safety net, ready to assist in times of urgent financial need. Additionally, even when the program concludes, I will possess valuable assets to fall back on. To achieve this financial stability and transformation in my life, I am committed to saving a portion of the monthly transfers I receive. This strategy will help me work toward my goal of buying more goats and securing a brighter future for myself."
Chani's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Chani received a $360 second payment.
"My aim is to bolster my charcoal business so that I can reliably cover the costs of my children's education. Education is the key to a brighter future for them, and I am determined to ensure they have access to the best opportunities. By acquiring more capital and expanding my business, I hope to not only provide for their school fees but also create a more stable and prosperous life for my family."
Jane's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Jane received a $360 second payment.
"I spent $250 of my recent unconditional cash transfer on purchasing construction materials such as cement, pipes, and sand and covering all the labor charges. The reason behind this was the urgent need to build a proper pit latrine. Our previous one had collapsed, and it was nothing more than a temporary structure. The embarrassment of having to rely on my neighbors' facilities or sometimes going to the bush for such a basic necessity was overwhelming. Hygiene and sanitation are essential, so I made them a top priority. Now, with a sturdy pit latrine in place, I no longer have to worry about exposure to diseases like cholera. In addition to addressing our sanitation needs, I used part of the funds to support my two daughters. I allocated a total of $220, with one daughter pursuing a hospitality course in college. I'm proud that she will be able to sit for her exams and continue her education without financial strain. My other daughter is currently in Form Four, and with this financial assistance, she can focus on her studies without worrying about the costs. With the remaining amount, I bought food to sustain my family of eight. As a widow relying on a small business selling potatoes, where my daily profit is around $5, this unconditional cash transfer has made a significant and positive impact on our lives."
Jemutai's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Jemutai enrolled.
"Food insecurity is the greatest challenge because, for the past three years, I have never harvested from my farm. The prolonged drought has resulted in unproductive farms hence food shortage. Currently, I rely on casual jobs in order to make ends meet and this has not been sustainable due to it's unpredictable nature."
Maryline's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Maryline enrolled.
"When my husband passed on five years ago, life took a different twist. My inlaws chased me out of my home and took over all the inheritance leaving me with the children only. I took refuge at a neighbor's place and since then I have never had any peace of mind. It has been challenging raising my three children single - handedly with no stable source of income."
Mwenda's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Mwenda received a $24 eighteenth payment.
"Upon receiving the unconditional transfers from Give Directly, an overwhelming sense of happiness and optimism engulfed me. Finally, I had the opportunity to fulfill my long-held dream of constructing a sturdy and comfortable house for my family. The current condition of our dwelling is dire, as it stands in a dilapidated state, posing a constant threat of collapse. However, with the iron sheets I have already acquired, I am one step closer to providing a new roof that will enhance the safety and security of our home. In addition to obtaining the iron sheets, I have devised a plan to purchase new poles to replace the decaying ones currently supporting our house. It is imperative to replace these compromised poles as they are already rotten, compromising the overall stability and structure of the building. By taking this necessary step, I can ensure a solid foundation and reinforce the integrity of our new dwelling. The assistance provided by Give Directly has filled me with profound gratitude and contentment. The opportunity to receive support from such a generous organization has granted me the means to address the pressing need for a safe and resilient home for my family. The prospect of building a new house brings immense joy and hope for a brighter future. I cannot express enough how thankful I am for the invaluable help bestowed upon me by Give Directly."
Stephen's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Stephen received a $24 eighteenth payment.
"With my current living situation, my entire family, including my children, resides in a cramped two-roomed house. However, I have set a personal objective to build a new house for myself, allowing my children to continue living in the existing two-roomed house. This plan is driven by my desire to safeguard and improve my privacy, especially as my children are growing up rapidly, making it challenging to coexist in the same living space. The prospect of constructing a new house fills me with immense joy, knowing that the transfers I have received will enable me to accomplish this goal. The assistance I have received has provided me with the means to create a separate living space for myself, promoting a sense of independence and personal space. I am grateful for the opportunity to enhance my living conditions and ensure the well-being of both myself and my children."
Kanze's family
access_time over 1 year ago
Kanze received a $24 eighteenth payment.
"My son is currently four years old, and it has been a year since he was diagnosed with epilepsy. Throughout this time, I have faced numerous challenges, but my unwavering determination led me to seek specialized medical care for him. I diligently ensured that he received the proper medication and support required to stabilize his condition. I am overjoyed to share that his health has significantly improved, and he now experiences rare instances of collapsing. Looking towards the future, my focus is to enroll my son in school early next year. This decision stems from my deep-rooted belief in the power of education to shape a brighter future. By providing him with a proper education, I aim to equip him with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue his dreams and secure a prosperous life ahead. The invaluable transfers I have received have played a vital role in achieving this significant milestone with my son. They have provided me with the means to access the specialized medical care he needed and have alleviated the financial burden associated with his condition. I am overwhelmed with happiness and gratitude for the support I have received, as it has paved the way for my son's well-being and the realization of his educational aspirations."