"The weight of years seemed to lift from my shoulders as I stood amidst the sturdy framework of our new home. The recent unconditional cash transfer had breathed life into my dreams, allowing me to trade the dilapidated shack that had sheltered us for so long for the promise of a solid, safe haven. With each nail driven into place and each pole raised, I could feel not only the walls taking shape but also a restoration of my own self-esteem. No longer did I have to avert my eyes when visitors came, and no longer did I feel the suffocating grip of embarrassment. As I watched my son's eyes light up with pride, I knew that this new beginning was a gift beyond measure, an investment in our well-being and happiness. Additionally, no longer bound by tattered clothes that exposed us to the elements, my son and I adorned ourselves in new garments that not only shielded us from skin diseases but also lifted our spirits. I also made sure to buy enough food for my six family members. With my spouse and I working hard to make and sell charcoal, the additional financial support from the cash transfers allowed us to secure our basic needs and even dream of a more stable future."

"As the unconditional cash transfer came into my hands, a sense of relief washed over me. It was a chance to rebuild what I had lost before. With part of the money, I wasted no time breathing life back into my clothing business, investing a sum of $400. I had run this venture before, but life's hardships had forced me to drain its capital. My three children's education and the ever-increasing cost of living took their toll on my business. But this time, things were different. With the financial burden eased, I could focus on my business without worrying. I could afford to provide for my family's basic needs, pay my three children's fees with ease, and even put food on the table without struggling. Additionally, I turned my attention to my struggling agribusiness, which had always lacked the capital it deserved. With the newfound funds, I could expand and develop it further, bringing life back to the farm and securing a more stable income for the future. It was a dream come true, and I couldn't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to turn my life around. Grateful for the blessings that came my way, I also offered a tithe of $55 in church, giving back a portion of the support I had received. The unconditional cash transfer had not only revived my businesses but also renewed my hope for a brighter future for my family."

"The weight of inadequacy and the burden of a cramped living space had plagued my family for far too long. But when the unconditional cash transfer came, it was like a glimmer of hope breaking through the darkest clouds. Without hesitation, I set out to change our lives for the better. The priority was clear: a new house that would provide us with the comfort and dignity we deserved. With determination in my heart, I carefully selected the necessary building materials, sparing no expense to ensure a sturdy and welcoming two-bedroom house. As the walls rose and the roof took shape, I could already envision a future filled with pride, knowing that my children would finally have their own space to dream and grow. My gratitude extended beyond our immediate needs. Education had always been a priority for me, and now, with the financial burden lifted, I could give my six children the gift of knowledge. I proudly paid their primary school fees, knowing that their attendance would no longer be disrupted due to financial constraints. Their teachers soon noticed the positive change in their performance, and I could feel their confidence growing. Moreover, I ensured that my nine family members never went to bed hungry, providing them with nourishing food to ease their burdens. My spouse, a hardworking shamba boy, would no longer bear the weight alone; together, we embraced a future full of hope and possibilities."

"As a single mother of three, making ends meet was a constant struggle with my meager earnings from charcoal-making. When the transfer came through, I knew exactly how to allocate the money to improve our lives. First and foremost, I cleared the $160 arrear for my daughter in eighth grade, a burden that had been weighing heavily on my mind. The relief I felt was immeasurable, knowing that my daughter's education could continue uninterrupted. Next, I decided to invest in our future. I used KES 3000 to buy a goat, an idea that came to me as a stroke of brilliance. With proper care and attention, the goat's offspring would multiply, and I could sell some to raise funds for my children's school fees in the coming years. I also used $100 to purchase a new mattress. Sleeping on an old, worn-out one had caused me constant pain and discomfort, affecting my ability to work efficiently during the day. The new mattress brought immediate relief, and I could finally sleep peacefully at night. Finally, I used the remaining amount to buy food, which turned out to be a blessing, lasting us almost three weeks. With this safety net and a plan for the future, I felt a newfound sense of security and optimism, ready to take on the challenges of life with renewed strength and determination."

"The biggest difference lies in my retail shop business, which has seen a remarkable boost, allowing me to pay fees with ease and even enjoy daily meals from the profits I earn. The weight of financial stress has been lifted off my shoulders, and I now lead a healthier, happier life with peace of mind. Gone are the days when my children were sent home from school due to unpaid fees, as now they can pursue their education without hindrance. GiveDirectly's support has brought stability, security, and a promising future for me and my family, and for that, I am forever grateful."

"Am living in peace"

"I first bought cow to keep it for the future purchases ,so as to buy land ."

"I was at home ,I felt so happy. I first thanked God for give directly remembering me and my family"

"In the coming years, my goal is to have a thriving livestock herd, comprising cattle, goats, and poultry. My primary wish is to acquire a dairy cow as it offers numerous advantages. As it reproduces and expands the herd, I can sell the offspring to boost my kiosk business in the future. Moreover, I can sell cow's milk to generate additional income. At present, I already have three goats, which serve as inspiration for me to continue growing the herd. I am determined to work hard and achieve my dream of a prosperous livestock farm that can support my family's needs and provide a stable financial future."

"A year ago when I arrived in Galana for farming, I had to rely on my cousin's house since I lacked the funds to construct my own. However, as I plan to stay here for a while, I want to build a proper house to provide a comfortable home for my two children and myself. This would also give my cousin's family more privacy and space. To achieve this goal, I have already begun purchasing construction materials, including iron sheets and building poles. Once I have gathered enough resources, I intend to hire someone to build a two-room mud-walled house with an iron-sheet roof. Also, I have a desire to own livestock, specifically goats and chickens. I plan to build a herd for my children, which will serve as a valuable asset for their future financial security."