Video: The benefits of giving cash directly to those in need

GiveDirectly, a nonprofit that lets donors send money directly to the world's poorest households, aims to accelerate the end of extreme poverty globally. Check out their video showing how cash sent directly to those in need in Malawi has made life-changing improvements for individuals, families and whole communities.

Since 2009, GiveDirectly delivered US$900M+ in cash directly into the hands of over 1.7 million people living in poverty. The organisation currently has operations in the DRC, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, Uganda and the US.

GiveDirectly has found that traditional aid often decides for people what they need, when they need it, and how they should use it. It’s well-intentioned but often disempowering. Giving cash shifts power to the person living in poverty, recognising they are the expert in their own lives and granting them the dignity to choose for themselves. Their research shows they spend cash aid in impactful and creative ways such as on medicine, cows, goats and chickens, school fees, solar panels, tin roofs, irrigation, motor taxis, new businesses and more.

Watch GiveDirectly video to see how it is improving the lives of recipients in Malawi and you can donate via Australia’s Effective Altruism.