"GiveDirectly has truly transformed not just my life but the lives of many who've been fortunate recipients of their unconditional cash. The freedom to decide how to use the funds, based on our individual needs and circumstances, has been a game-changer. Instead of being restricted to predetermined items, the cash allowed me to address the most pressing issues in my life, like improving my living conditions and ensuring my family's well-being. However, it got me thinking; perhaps it would be beneficial if there was a community discussion, a barasa, on whether recipients should be given cash or specific items. Unexpected challenges can arise, hindering us from fulfilling promises made when provided with predetermined items."

"My four grown boys have been seeking shelter at my neighbours' homes for the longest time since my financial constraints could not allow me to construct a separate structure for them. Our cultural norms make it uncomfortable for them to share sleeping spaces with me. Asking our neighbours for accommodations has been embarrassing, as I felt we were intruding on their children's privacy. However, with $100 from the transfer, I was able to make a significant change. I used it to build a modest one-room home for my boys, complete with mud-smeared walls and an iron sheet roof. This not only provides them with a place to stay but also brings a sense of dignity and allows them to do their evening studies. Additionally, I leased an acre of land near the river for $100 open for cultivating maize to feed our family of 12, ensuring that they do not lack food for consumption. Furthermore, I invested $100 in two goats as a way of securing my children's education through the potential sales of goats, given their rapid reproduction in our area. With eight of them still in school, these goats play a crucial role in supporting their educational needs. I used $100 to buy clothes, ensuring that each family member had at least one decent outfit, bringing a touch of normalcy and pride. The remaining funds are spent on buying food for my family's sustainability."

"I have a deep sense of commitment to securing a better future through education for three my children. For the coming year and beyond, my main focus is to ensure that their school fees are paid on time, allowing them to concentrate fully on their studies without any interruptions. To achieve this, I utilize the third transfer to invest in three goats, adding to the few I already have. Goats do well in our region, and their quick reproduction makes them a promising asset, as I plan to sell them for additional income. Furthermore, part of the transfer will also be allocated to paying a portion of the school fees. I firmly believe that by providing them with the best possible education, they will be equipped to support me in the future, especially when they secure employment. This investment in their education represents a long-term strategy for securing a brighter and more sustainable future for both them and myself."

"I really want to do something special this year and in the future. My plan involves a determined effort to purchase land, even if it's just a quarter-acre. Right now, I live in a small place my dad gave me. Acquiring additional land will serve as a catalyst for venturing into agriculture, offering an additional income stream. I intend to focus on cultivating maize for commercial purposes, especially given its favorable performance with irrigation. To realize this goal, I have strategized to utilize part of the third transfer to secure the land. I am also going to work harder to boost grocery sales and increase daily savings. By doing so, I aim to accumulate the necessary funds to make payments for the land acquisition. This plan means a lot to me because I see it as a step towards having better financial stability and self-sufficiency, aligning with my aspirations for sustainable growth and prosperity in the coming years.."

"My last-born son, the only boy among my three children, used to sleep in a semi-collapsing house that worried me as a parent. Determined to provide him with a safer space, I used $300 from the GiveDirectly cash transfer to build him a new and secure house. Now, I feel content and relieved to see him sleeping peacefully in a sturdy home. As a widow relying on casual labor for income, my son also works hard to support me. To ease our struggle, I spent $60 on a sack of maize, ensuring that we had enough food at home and giving us a break from the exhausting work. With $120, I took my grandchild to the hospital for much-needed medical attention after falling ill. Witnessing his recovery brings me immense joy, and I'm grateful for the support the transfer provided. For the remaining amount, I decided to save it with the plan to renovate my house, making it more robust by adding some pillars. This thoughtful allocation of the cash transfer has not only improved our living conditions but has also given us hope for a more secure and stable future."

"I invested $400 in fencing my land, a decision prompted by the presence of valuable mango trees and the constant disturbance from neighborhood livestock. These animals are allowed to roam freely. I couldn't leave my home without safeguarding my land. The mango trees play a crucial role in sustaining my family, and thanks to the support from GiveDirectly, I was finally able to address this long-standing issue. For years, financial constraints prevented me from putting up a fence. GiveDirectly's assistance has made it possible for me to break free from this cycle, and for that, I am grateful. I allocated $50 to buy food to sustain my husband and two grandchildren. Our maize crop failed last year due to rainfall shortages. As farmers, this setback hit us hard, and casual jobs were no longer an option to bridge the gap due to our old age. The mango trees, now protected, will undoubtedly contribute to sustaining my family in the long run. This future investment is a testament to the positive impact of GiveDirectly's support."

"The support we have received from GiveDirectly is transformative. Their educational guidance on effective spending has empowered us to allocate our resources wisely, leading to visible, positive changes. The approach adopted by GiveDirectly is empowering. It goes beyond mere financial assistance; it educates us on how to make the most of the support, ensuring long-term benefits. This method has laid a foundation for sustainable development within our community. I hope that GiveDirectly will continue with this approach. Their work has the potential to impact more communities positively, fostering growth and stability."

"I spent all my transfer on building a new house which is stronger than the old one."

"I was at home, then someone told me that they had sent the money and I immediately checked. I thought of buying a diary cow for my self"

"I was at home then I heard from a neighbour attesting to have recieved the money and immediately went to check for my account and there was a message. I immediately thought of buying a cow"