"The most significant change in my daily life since I began receiving unconditional cash transfers from GiveDirectly is the presence of four goats in my compound. Owning goats had always been a dream of mine, but the financial burden was simply too great to bear on my own. These goats are more than just livestock; they represent a lifeline in times of financial crisis. With them, I have a safety net, a source of income, and a means to secure my family's future. One of the most pressing challenges I faced before was ensuring that my two children could attend junior secondary school regularly, as I relied solely on income from farming, which could be unpredictable. But now, with the goats, I can confidently provide for their education, knowing that I have a sustainable source of income. These cash transfers have not only given me the means to fulfill my dream of owning livestock but have also opened up a world of opportunities for my family's well-being and education, marking a profound and transformative difference in our lives."

"It warms my heart to share that my life has taken a turn for the better since receiving support from GiveDirectly. The burden of constant worry about where the next meal would come from or how to secure casual employment has been lifted. Moreover, the assistance has provided me with the means to acquire decent clothing, enabling me to present myself with dignity and confidence. Beyond the immediate needs, the relief has extended to addressing health concerns. I have been grappling with eye problems that had previously hindered my ability to engage in any form of work. With the financial support, I prioritized seeking medical care for my eyes, and I am pleased to report a significant improvement in my condition. This positive transformation, both in terms of material well-being and health, is a testament to the impactful change that GiveDirectly has brought into my life. I express my deepest gratitude to GiveDirectly for alleviating the immediate challenges and also empowering me to take charge of my health and overall well-being. This support has truly made a meaningful difference in my life, allowing me to embrace each day with hope and optimism."

"Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, the worry of how to manage the impending school fees for my child, especially with the prospect of secondary school fees looming next year, had become a constant source of stress. The arrival of the GiveDirectly transfers acted as a much-needed balm, soothing the anxieties that had gripped our household. The burden of school fees, a significant financial obligation, was alleviated, bringing a sense of relief and tranquility. This financial cushion ensured the current educational journey and also offered a glimpse of assurance for the future, creating a stable foundation for my child's academic pursuits. Moreover, beyond education, the impact on our overall well-being is notable. The improved financial stability has translated into tangible improvements in our health and comfort. As stress diminishes, health thrives, creating a positive cycle that contributes to our general well-being. In essence, the GiveDirectly transfers have emerged as a beacon of support, not in addressing immediate concerns but also in laying the groundwork for a more secure and stable future for both education and health."

"I had just returned home from work, taking a moment to relax at around 3 pm when I received the amount in my M-Pesa. A sense of great relief and joy filled my heart. This was particularly significant because my children had been sent home from school due to unpaid arrears. The timing of this financial support meant that my children could resume their studies the very next day, adding an extra layer of happiness to the moment."

"As a teacher, the moment I received the message from GiveDirectly, I was in school, surrounded by the professional environment that restrained me from expressing my joy outwardly. However, internally, I felt a surge of happiness, knowing that this financial assistance would significantly impact my life. The immediate concern that occupied my thoughts was the impending school fees for my child. Coincidentally, on that very day, we received a communication from the school's head teacher indicating that students would be sent home due to fee arrears. The timely arrival of the funds from GiveDirectly presented a solution to this challenge, lifting a considerable weight off my shoulders. It was a reminder of how small acts of generosity can make a substantial difference in the lives of individuals, particularly when faced with critical needs like education."

"While I was in Marigat, deeply engaged in caring for my daughter-in-law and the newborn, the arrival of the GiveDirectly transfers infused my heart with unparalleled joy. This joy emanated from a stark reality back home — the constant struggle to put even one meal on the table. There were days when a single meal was a luxury, and sometimes even that was uncertain. The significance of the transfers, for me, lay in the newfound ability to provide an ample supply of food for my children, alleviating the perpetual concern of going to bed hungry."

"In a thoughtful allocation of the received funds, I directed $30 towards securing food for my household. This seemingly simple act brought an immense sense of relief, alleviating a persistent concern that had lingered in the recesses of my mind in case I did not find a job and there would be no income. Remarkably, I managed to settle my children's school fees, a stunt achieved without the burden of arrears for the first time since I undertook the responsibility of caring for these three youngsters. This newfound financial stability infused me with a sense of encouragement, envisioning a brighter future for my household. Anticipating a secure and comfortable living space, I allocated $110 to purchase posts, a crucial step in the preparation for the construction of my home. This investment signaled a tangible step toward a better living environment and a symbolic move toward stability and permanence. Recognizing the importance of diversifying income sources, I used $20 to expand my fruit-selling venture, this strategic decision aimed to enhance our financial standing. In acknowledgment of life's uncertainties, $20 was set aside in savings, designated for emergencies such as unexpected illnesses. This foresighted approach was motivated by a desire to shield my family from the financial strains that often accompany unforeseen challenges."

"Positive transformations have permeated various aspects of my life since receiving assistance from GiveDirectly. Primarily, my business has experienced a significant boost, creating a more robust and sustainable source of income. Equally impactful is the newfound abundance of food in my home. This shift has alleviated the pressure on my business to solely provide sustenance, allowing me to diversify my sources of nutrition. Consequently, this has contributed to a healthier and more stable lifestyle for my family. One of the most noteworthy changes lies in my capacity to save. Unlike the past, when saving seemed like a distant possibility, I now find myself in position to set aside funds for future needs and opportunities. This financial prudence marks a substantial improvement in my economic outlook and provides a buffer against unforeseen challenges. These changes collectively form the foundation for a brighter and more secure future for myself and my family."

"The transformation that the GiveDirectly transfers have brought into my life is nothing short of miraculous. I allocated $180 towards building a proper house. Since the current one was not cemented, dust from it was endangering people's health. I envisioned a home where I could receive visitors comfortably, and the new house is a step towards achieving that. Not only will it provide shelter, but it will also save us from potential medical bills that could push us back into poverty. Another essential aspect was ensuring we have enough food. Before the transfers, I used to sell fruits to make ends meet, but the income was inconsistent. With $50 invested in purchasing food, we can now enjoy meals without the constant worry of going to bed hungry. I also used $100 to construct a pit latrine. Lack of proper sanitation was a concern, and having a toilet now contributes to our health, and this would not have been achieved without the help from GiveDirectly. Moreover, I prioritized savings, setting aside $120 for future needs. This represents a crucial shift in my financial strategy, as I now have the capacity to plan for the future and respond to unexpected circumstances."

"I have a goal to build a new two-room house. Right now, my wife, six children, and I all share a cramped two-room space. As the kids grow, they need separate rooms for boys and girls, which our current house cannot provide. It is also a challenge when we have guests because there is no separate space for them. Having another two-room house would ensure everyone has enough space. The children could stay in the current structure, while my wife and visitors could use the new one. To do this, I estimated that I would need at least $600 for a mud-walled house with an iron sheet roof and concrete skirting. Depending on my motorcycle taxi business might make it a challenge to get that money all at once, especially with rising fuel prices and fewer customers due to higher prices. However, I believe that with the cash transfers and my income combined, I can make this happen."