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.
Grace's family
access_time over 2 years ago
Grace received a $432 second payment.
"GiveDirectly funds enabled me to construct a one-bedroom house and stop sleeping in my mother's kitchen. As a father of three, it bothered me that I didn't have my own bed or mattress, and these funds enabled me to do so once more. I bought one of each for myself. As a single mother, much of what I accomplished would have been impossible for me. My husband is a gardener in Mombasa, but we divorced two years ago, and I've been on my own with the kids ever since. My eldest is in Grade 1, my second is two years old, and my youngest is seven months old. Fortunately for me, my main recurring expense has been school fees for my eldest who attends Mnagoni Primary and requires $3 in tuition per month. Given that I had to till my farm for maize in order for us to eat while living with my mother, it's clear that all of my expenses, no matter how minor, were a struggle for me. a struggle that GiveDirectly has greatly aided in alleviating, and for which we will be eternally grateful."
Grace's family
access_time over 2 years ago
Grace received a $447 second payment.
"GiveDirectly enabled me to finally prioritize growing my current business. I own a small mini-mart where I sell everything from toothbrushes to soap to flour and milk. In Ganze, my husband works as a boda boda operator, earning between $5 and $8 per day. With a limited budget, covering recurring expenses like school fees was difficult, but thankfully, GiveDirectly was there to help. The $15 and $5 per month paid to Mdizumitsamo School for my PP1 and Play Group kids, respectively, were putting a strain on us when money was tight. GiveDirectly truly lifted us out of a bad situation and into one of comfort and gratitude."
Katana's family
access_time over 2 years ago
Katana received a $432 second payment.
"prior to the arrival of GiveDirectly. My house was in the slums. It was a two-bedroom house, but  in poor shape. The initial transfers enabled me to improve  the house. As previously stated, the second one was used. GiveDirectly excels at being a blessing, and that is exactly what they have been to my family and me."
Kadzo's family
access_time over 2 years ago
Kadzo received a $432 second payment.
"GiveDirectly discovered me deep in debt at my children's school. As a result, the vast majority of them were absent from school. I can now clear those and stay current. GiveDirectly gave us hope and the opportunity to maintain our dignity as parents by allowing us to provide for our children."
Fedice's family
access_time over 2 years ago
Fedice received a $432 second payment.
"My husband and I were extremely grateful for the funds provided by GiveDirectly. It enabled us to do a lot for our nine children. We were struggling to make ends meet between my husband's watchman salary of $70 per month paid by Ganze Dispensary and what I brought in from my business selling chapati, mandazi, and other items. The transfers enabled me to expand my business. I put some much-needed money into stocks and other investments. I sell my food near Kimbule Primary School, primarily to students and teachers, and having extra stock allows me to make larger batches. I'm hoping to sell more! My children attend Kimbule Primary School and range in age from Class 8 to Grade 6, Grade 4, Grade 2, and two in Grade 1., and require $8, $7, $6, and $5, respectively, while the last two are both two years old and only require us to meet their basic needs. The funds were a blessing. The peace of mind that comes from knowing you can cater to your family's needs, even if only for a short time, was refreshing! Every day, we thank GiveDirectly. When we pray before my husband leaves, whether it's in the morning or evening, depending on his shift, we always make sure to ask God to keep GiveDirectly moving. Many more people, including myself, require their assistance."
Kenga's family
access_time over 2 years ago
Kenga received a $432 second payment.
"I supply traditional alcohol to a pub from Friday to Sunday where I get $10. This money helps me buy food for my family. I take care of a big family, four children, my wife, and my mother who recently divorced my father and came to live with me. Life has been hard being the only person providing for the whole family. Most days I get late paying my children's school fees. I spent my recent transfer to install water at my home sted, improved the house floor, and bought a goat for supplying us with milk."
Kadzo's family
access_time over 2 years ago
Kadzo received a $432 second payment.
"I was alone, selling charcoal that I made myself and tilling maize on the farm I own to feed myself and my children. GiveDirectly did for me what they do so well for so many other people. They restored my dignity and enabled me to support my family. I wish them nothing but the best and hope that they continue to do the same for countless others."
Rajab's family
access_time over 2 years ago
Rajab received a $432 second payment.
"My current goal at the moment is to expand my business. Having two more locations, in and around the centre , would greatly boost both my income as well as our quality of life. In the long run, my family will be in a better place in the future."
Christine's family
access_time over 2 years ago
Christine received a second payment.
"I own a restaurant making $7 a day. I have been saving some money to build a restaurant. In 2023 I vision myself with my new restaurant which is a dream come true."
Mwaduna's family
access_time over 2 years ago
Mwaduna received a $432 second payment.
"My long-term goal is to get a job that can take care of my family, preferably in the big city of Mombasa. My friend works as a cleaner in the city and he promised to find a job for me."