"Around 2 in the afternoon, I found myself in a quiet moment of relaxation after diligently taking my post-eye surgery medicine. It was then that my daughter, with an infectious smile, shared the news that I had received an unconditional cash transfer from GiveDirectly. A surge of happiness engulfed me, realizing that the days of makeshift sleeping arrangements on traditional beds were finally coming to an end. For years, I had relied on those rudimentary setups, and the thought of transitioning to a comfortable bed and mattress sparked a profound sense of joy. The unconditional support felt like a gift of dignified rest, a reprieve from the discomforts of the past, and a promise of better nights ahead. Gratitude welled within me, not just for the tangible upgrade but for the renewed sense of comfort and stability this unexpected assistance brought to my life."

"My objective is to guarantee the successful education of my five children by consistently paying their fees on time. Unfortunately, I lack a steady source of income that could help with this educational responsibility. The monthly transfers have proven instrumental in maintaining their uninterrupted schooling. Despite grappling with financial challenges, witnessing my children achieve their educational aspirations remains my utmost priority."

"As a single parent with three school-going children and no external support, the majority of the transfers will be allocated to cover their educational expenses. Additionally, I am contemplating initiating a poultry project as my current endeavor doesn't yield substantial income. The poultry project will be a reliable source of income through the sale of poultry and generate some money. I am confident that this project will not only contribute to our financial stability but also ensure the continuity of my children's education."

"Upon receiving my second transfer of $450 from GiveDirectly, my primary focus was procuring food, a crucial investment given the consistent challenge of sustaining ourselves. We heavily rely on casual jobs and our small-scale farming efforts, yet the past three years have seen our harvests thwarted by unpredictable rainfall patterns, resulting in continual losses. The struggle to provide for our four children and ourselves persists. Last year, blessed with better rains, I invested $150 in planting maize once more. Additionally, I allocated $200 to purchase sheep, preferring their manageable nature as they refrain from causing disturbances in other people's farms. I intend to breed them, sell their offspring, and thereby sustain our family. To diversify our turnover, I introduced chickens into our homestead by purchasing four for $14. I hold hope that through the sale of eggs and chicken, a steady income can be generated to support our daily needs. Another significant change came in the form of a mattress, acquired for $40. Previously, I endured discomfort sleeping on an old, inadequate one supported by worn-out bags. This new investment has alleviated the strain on my back and waist, ensuring a more restful night's sleep. Despite the challenges, these investments represent hope for a better future, enabling us to move forward with renewed determination and resilience."

"Gratitude fills my heart as I reflect on the impact of GiveDirectly on my life and the lives of others in our community. Thanks to their support, I now experience the simple yet profound joy of sleeping and living comfortably. The burden of my children's school fees, which previously weighed heavily on my shoulders, has been lifted, ensuring they receive the education they deserve. My children can now eat well, a testament to the transformative power of assistance from GiveDirectly.As I express my heartfelt thanks, I also look to the future with hope. I earnestly request that when you return, you remember us. Your continued support has brought happiness to our lives, and with your ongoing assistance, we can build on this foundation of comfort and security."

"Once I received my recent cash, I decided to strategically allocate it to address multiple aspects of my life. Recognizing the resilience of goats during drought seasons and my preference for them, I invested $30 to purchase two goats. This not only aligned with my personal preference but also provided a sustainable source of income through their reproduction.Previously, my living conditions were modest, sleeping on a mat. However, with $50, I upgraded to a mattress, enhancing my comfort and well being.Simultaneously, I used another $50 to relieve the burden of school fees for my children, a financial challenge I had been grappling with through casual labor in charcoal burning.Understanding the potential of poultry farming, I spent $10 to acquire five chickens. This strategic move aimed to secure a future income stream, as the chickens multiplied, contributing to covering future school fees.Lastly, I wisely utilized the remaining funds to complete the construction of my house, a project left unfinished from the initial cash. This comprehensive approach not only improved my immediate living conditions but also established avenues for sustained financial stability, reflecting a thoughtful consideration of my priorities and needs."

"With four children, two in secondary school and two in elementary, I faced the challenge of residing in a small, dilapidated house, particularly after heavy rains. To ensure our safety, I allocated $230 to finish constructing a one-bedroom house. We find immense joy in residing in a secure and comfortable home, especially with its warmth that embraces us. Additionally, I spent $180 on settling my children's outstanding school fees. I spent the remaining funds to replenish our food supplies, as we had depleted them entirely."

"With the recent $200 from GiveDirectly, I strategically allocated the funds to address immediate needs and invest in the future. Recognizing the urgency of the times, I secured two sacks of maize, ensuring a reliable source of food for my family during these challenging days. Education remained a priority as well I directed a portion towards supporting my child in secondary school, investing in their future. The rest of the funds were wisely invested in our small ventures I an expansion of my vegetable business and a boost for my wife's modest hotel. This thoughtful allocation aimed not just at surviving the present but at laying the foundation for stability and growth, a resilient response to the uncertainties that life presents."

"I am a mother of four and currently only engaging in farming as my source of income. My husband has no job and has moved to the city yesterday to try find a job. I used to have a grocery stall but I closed it due to the animals as they would devour my stock and I would end up making nothing. I want to find an alternative way of ensuring my family is provided for. I am saving to facilitate the purchase of animals from which I hope to gain an income from by ensuring they procreate so they can multiply in number."

"I run a small stall selling homemade soap, sardines, tomatoes and vegetables. I depend on this business to take of my family as I am the sole provider for my home. My business does not make enough yet to feed and school my children. I depend on my transfers for school fees. My aim is to ensure all my children get an education to give then a chance to compete in the world. I also plan to expand on the business that is taking care f my family's needs which will help increase what I make from the business."