"As a widow relying on my son Moses’s casual labor for our daily needs, I was relieved when I received my second transfer of $550. My first priority was to invest in our future, so I bought two high-breed goats for $100, adding to the three I already had. These goats will help us build a stable source of income and improve our livelihood by selling of the ofsprings. After that, I used $180 to pay school fees for my two secondary school daughters, Pili and Karembo, ensuring they can focus on their studies without the stress of interruptions. Their education is vital for their future, and I want them to have every opportunity to succeed. With the remaining funds, I tackled another pressing issue. I bought eight pieces of iron sheets for $96 to complete the roofing of our new house. Our old house had collapsed, forcing me to stay with my son, which wasn’t ideal. I also paid the contractor $100 for his work. Since we did not harvest as we expected, I spent $45 on a sack of maize to make sure we had enough to eat. Finally, I saved the remaining $29 for future family needs. These transfers have helped me address several critical areas in raising my family."

"Initially, I planned to invest my transfers in paying for a plumbing course that I was eager to take. However, due to the high cost, I decided to pursue a driving course instead, which my brother generously offered to pay for. As a result, I have now shifted my focus away from the plumbing course. In the coming year and beyond, I am planning to set up a shop business. With a wife and one child to provide for, I needed an investment that would last and support my family even after the transfers end. This led me to choose a shop business. To achieve this goal, I am saving $20 every month to ensure I raise enough capital to establish this project. I believe this will be a financial breakthrough once I establish it."

"I am in Form One, and it is through GiveDirectly transfers that I have been able to stay in school, as my parents are peasant farmers. When I started receiving these transfers, I saw the need to support myself, allowing my parents to cover the fees for my younger siblings. Since these transfers have a specific timeline, I decided to invest them in a project that would help me pay my fees even after the transfers end, knowing I still have a long way to go. I initially bought a good number of chickens for my poultry project, with the number almost reaching 50. Unfortunately, when I came home from school, I was told that a disease outbreak had affected the chickens, wiping out all that I had bought. I felt devastated. Therefore, I have changed my plan and now want to invest in livestock, specifically goats, with my GiveDirectly transfers. This is my goal for the coming year and beyond. I am hopeful that this will thrive, as goats multiply very quickly. This will provide me with future financial security and serve as a reminder of the monthly transfers once they come to an end."

"I took my goats to the forest in the evening to graze, and I left my phone at home. On my way back, a neighbor asked me if I had received my transfer from GiveDirectly. Since I didn't have my phone with me, I couldn't confirm this, but I was curious and wanted to check. I went straight home, grabbed my phone, and checked my notifications. To my delight, it was indeed true that I had received mine as well. I felt happy upon seeing this and smiled as I returned to my livestock."

"GiveDirectly did well by providing direct cash transfers that allowed me to meet my immediate needs and plan for the future. Their approach was transparent and efficient, ensuring that the funds reached me quickly and without unnecessary complications. The process was smooth, and I truly appreciate their support in turning a challenging situation into a hopeful one. I have no objection to any of the processes; however, one area where they could improve is in providing additional resources or guidance for utilizing the funds effectively. This could further empower recipients by offering practical advice or workshops on financial planning and business development, enhancing the positive impact of their generous contributions."

"Upon receiving $450 from GiveDirectly, I felt thrilled and thankful for this support. At that time, I had 1.25 acres of idle land that I wanted to prepare for farming. I used $300 to clear and prepare the land. I plan to grow maize and vegetables. Despite the current rains slowing my progress, I am determined to finish the land preparation as soon as possible because it holds the potential to secure food for my home and the four grandchildren I live with. This transfer came at a critical time when there was a food shortage in my home. I spent $70 to ensure we had enough to eat. I used the remaining money for my medication, as I was very sick and could barely get out of bed. Thanks to the GiveDirectly money, I can now walk, even though I am not fully recovered. I feel so much better now."

"In the coming year, I have a clear goal of buying a farming plot in the fertile area of Matolani for food crop production. This plot is my ticket to a better future, where I can grow enough food to provide for my family and even sell the surplus for extra income. I've already found the perfect place, rich with potential, and now I'm focused on securing the funds to purchase it. With this land, I hope to cultivate a variety of crops, ensuring that we have a steady supply of food throughout the year. Beyond feeding my family, I dream of expanding the farm, growing crops, and eventually creating a small business. This farming venture is about building a stable and prosperous future."

"I have been struggling with stomach issues for as long as I can remember, going back to my childhood. While it has been a 40-year battle, the last three years have been particularly difficult. The severity of my stomach problems has escalated, to the point where I urgently need medical attention at Kilifi County Hospital. Unfortunately, our family's financial situation has made it difficult for us to afford the necessary medical care. This has been a significant source of stress for us. On top of my health concerns, my stepdaughter has also faced health challenges, requiring surgery for a throat problem, and our financial constraints have had a major impact on her treatment as well. We are hopeful that we will be able to secure the funds needed to address these medical issues and receive the necessary care."

"I was preparing supper for my family in the evening when my son asked to use my phone. While he was using the phone, he came across some messages that I hadn't seen. One of the notifications was an Mpesa message. When he read the contents, he excitedly told me that I had received my first transfer from GiveDirectly, which had been sent many hours ago. I couldn't believe that I had unknowingly had all that money in my account the whole time! I was overjoyed and thanked GiveDirectly for fulfilling their promise to us."

"I live in the village and spend most of my time engaging in subsistence farming and making charcoal to sell. Lately, farming hasn't been profitable, so I've been focused on charcoal making. In the evening, as I was collecting the charcoal, I received a message on my phone. Since I couldn't read, I didn't bother to check it. When I returned home, my son looked at the message and informed me that I had received money from GiveDirectly. Despite being tired, I was overjoyed and celebrated this blessing with my children. I couldn't wait to withdraw the money and buy new beds and mattresses, as we were in need of better bedding."