"I BELIEVE THAT WHEN I GET LAND AND MOVE MY FAMILY TO A SAFE AREA, THEIR SAFETY WILL BRING ME AND MY FAMILY JOY"

"The impending exams scheduled for May will require a total of $110 for registration. To prepare for this expense, I have already initiated savings, setting aside $30 as a preliminary contribution towards covering the exam fees. My paramount objective is to successfully pay for and take the exams. To accomplish this, I am committed to allocating a substantial portion of my transfers specifically for the purpose of exam payment. Additionally, I aim to allocate funds to cover the accommodation costs for my three-month duration at school. The financial assistance provided through the transfers has been pivotal in enabling me to sustain my education, and for this, I am immensely appreciative."

"GiveDirectly's unconditional cash transfers have proven to be a catalyst for positive change, opening up people's minds and empowering them to make meaningful decisions. The follow-up calls from the organization have played a crucial role in fostering responsibility among recipients, leading to a noticeable reduction in the poverty index within the community. On a personal level, I have experienced tangible benefits from acquiring assets through the transfers I received. This not only improves my immediate living conditions but also contributes to a more stable and secure future for myself and my family of six. While appreciating the positive impact, I share a wish for GiveDirectly to consider in-house follow-up visits. Such visits would further ensure that the transfers are effectively utilized, providing valuable insights into the true impact on the community. This proactive approach can help maintain transparency, dispel any misinformation, and encourage a sense of accountability within the community. Overall, I am grateful for the assistance received and hopeful that ongoing efforts will continue to uplift and empower communities through thoughtful and effective interventions."

"Receiving the transfers from GiveDirectly was a tremendous blessing for me. As an elderly individual, farming is not just a livelihood but a way of life for my family of six. The $120 I spent on goats and $40 on maize were strategic investments, considering the sustainable benefits they could bring. The goats, in particular, hold promise for a steady income through their milk, meat, and future offspring. Maize, being a staple, contributes significantly to our food security. With the remaining funds, I wisely chose to invest in household essentials like cooking oil and sugar, ensuring that the daily needs of my family are met. I am grateful to GiveDirectly for the assistance that has truly transformed my life. The support has not only provided immediate relief but has also opened doors to a more secure and stable future for me and my loved ones."

"Running my tailoring shop has been my sole means of livelihood. Thanks to monthly financial support, I've successfully stocked it with ample textile materials, and it's thriving. While I can cater to a large clientele, the sewing machines currently in use are not as effective and efficient as I would like. At times, I find it necessary to rent machines from other tailors who have more advanced equipment. My aim is to accumulate sufficient funds to invest in a superior overlock sewing machine, surpassing the capabilities of my current ones. This upgrade will enable me to better serve my clients and elevate the overall efficiency of my tailoring business. Not only will it reduce dependence on others' machines, but it will also cut down on the expenses associated with renting."

"I am currently managing a small shop where I stock vegetables, fruits, and sardines, and it serves as my sole source of income. Fortunately, I do not incur rent expenses as the shop is situated on my own piece of land. Despite its small size, I have been unable to expand it to a larger space due to financial constraints. I initiated the expansion process, but unfortunately, I had to pause it due to insufficient funds. My goal is to complete the construction and transform it into a larger business premise. This would not only provide ample space for my current shop but also allow me to rent out additional rooms. Completing this project holds the potential to significantly enhance my business and generate additional income through rental arrangements. I am planning to save enough funds to purchase the necessary building materials and finalize the construction, realizing the dream of having a more spacious business space."

"I can still vividly recall that pivotal day when my phone, drained of battery, left me oblivious to the life-altering message awaiting me. Engaged in farm work, I hurriedly made my way to the charging spot as soon as I received word from a relative about their newfound financial support from GiveDirectly. Upon switching on my phone, a wave of elation washed over me as I discovered that I, too, had received an unconditional cash transfer. The realization hit me with profound joy, knowing that I could now afford to pay school fees for my five kids in lower grades. As a single parent, this support meant more than just education; it meant breaking barriers that could have kept my children home. Gratitude swelled in my heart, and I couldn't express enough thanks to the organization that had made it possible for my kids to continue their education."

"I have spent most of it on buying livestock"

"My primary goal for this year is to expand my goat herd significantly. To accomplish this, I intend to utilize my upcoming transfers to procure additional goats. This strategic move aims to enhance the probability of their multiplication, ultimately expanding the herd. Subsequently, I plan to capitalize on the increased numbers by selling some of the goats, generating income to self-sufficiently meet my needs and reduce reliance on financial assistance from my son. I am genuinely grateful for the invaluable financial support provided by Give Directly, which has been instrumental in aiding my endeavors thus far."

"In the past, I managed a thriving poultry venture, which unfortunately faced a setback when I encountered an accident. Subsequently, I had to sell some of the hens to cover my medical expenses. Now, having recuperated and secured a source of income as a motorcycle taxi operator, I am eager to revive the project and generate additional earnings from it. The support I have received from Give Directly has significantly transformed my life, and I am genuinely grateful for it."