"There's a big difference now, I am happy without thoughts of worrying about the future, I now have a picture of my future"

"I have spent most of it on livestock."

"When I got the cash transfer from GiveDirectly, I was doing a casual job on my neighbor's farm. I felt overjoyed when I finished my work and immediately headed home that evening. Sitting down with my family, I shared the exciting news. We had several plans to address, but the first thing that came to our minds was to buy sheep and create a lasting memory of GiveDirectly's support. The happiness we felt was indescribable. We discussed the various ways we could use the money and the idea of getting sheep stood out as something special. It wasn't just about the practicality of having livestock; it was about creating a symbol of the support we received."

"I aim to save $11 each month to improve my house, which currently lacks sufficient space for my three grandchildren residing with me. With these savings, I plan to acquire building materials like iron sheets and poles later this year. Additionally, I intend to replace my worn-out beddings, crucial for my health as I battle tuberculosis. My primary goal is to create a comfortable living and sleeping environment, and I am hopeful that this monthly support will help achieve this."

"I plan to allocate my transfers towards acquiring livestock, particularly goats and chickens, as I lack a stable source of income. Currently, I own two goats that I am diligently caring for, recognizing them as a reliable support system in times of need. The assistance from my children is limited due to their large families and engagement in manual labor. I see building my own assets, such as livestock, as a crucial safety net to address any future financial challenges that may arise."

"My current residence is not spacious and has a grass thatched roof. During heavy rain, my husband and I have to seek shelter from a neighbor due to leaks. With the monthly financial support, I'm now able to plan for the future. I intend to save a portion each month to buy iron sheets and eventually construct a larger house with a stable iron roof. This way, I can look forward to a worry-free life during rains, knowing my family will have a decent and secure home."

"Over the past few years, I have been facing economic challenges, making it difficult for me to engage in income-generating activities due to my elliptic condition. Consequently, I relied on my husband, who worked as a casual laborer, burning charcoal and earning a modest $40 per week. This income primarily went towards meeting our basic needs, including food. Upon receiving the second transfer from GiveDirectly, I decided to invest $250 in starting a charcoal business. This involved purchasing charcoal from other producers when I couldn't produce it myself, ensuring that my clients could obtain charcoal whenever needed. Establishing this business is crucial for maintaining a steady income, enabling me to provide for my family. Additionally, I allocated $98 from the remaining amount of the second transfer to purchase three goats. My hope is that, as they multiply in the future, they will serve as a form of financial security for our family."

"GiveDirectly is doing well by providing direct financial support, bringing joy to people's faces. The straightforward approach of giving money directly has a positive impact on the lives of those receiving assistance. My suggestion would be for GiveDirectly to continue with this effective method, as it is making a meaningful difference in the well-being of individuals and communities."

"In the coming years, my primary goal is to cultivate fruits on my newly fenced 1.5-acre land. Mangoes and bananas are the chosen varieties, as they do well in our area, and there is a readily available market with brokers visiting the farm. In addition to fruit cultivation, I intend to diversify by dedicating a section of the land to planting maize and beans. This strategic approach aims to enhance overall productivity and provide additional sources of sustenance for my family. Interplanting during the fruit-growing period maximizes the land's potential, optimizing space and yields. As the fruits mature, I anticipate a steady income flow, contributing to our economic stability. I am optimistic about the future, confident that this agricultural venture will not only provide for my family's immediate needs but also create a foundation for sustained prosperity in the years to come."

"My aspiration for this year is to empower myself financially by joining a merry go round, a local group of women making monthly contribution to the village bank. I will be joining the group of 15 beginning this month and hope to raise about 20000 KES by the end of the year to build a new house to comfortably accommodate my family of 8. I will be excited to accomplish this!"