"The generous support from GiveDirectly has proven incredibly valuable, particularly due to the versatility of the cash support that can be allocated to various projects. It has enabled me to cover school fees, enhance my farming initiatives, and fortify my business, laying a foundation for sustained self-sufficiency. I appreciate the organization's commitment to ensuring recipients engage in constructive endeavors, and I have not encountered any issues, as their guidance about responsible use, including the caution against alcohol misuse, has been clear and effective."

"It wasn't always feasible for me to walk 7 kilometers to fetch water from a river, and sometimes I had to rely on my young kids, who could barely carry 5 liters. This challenge prompted my prayers for a breakthrough, particularly to purchase water collection and storage equipment. I was thrilled when GiveDirectly provided unique and generous cash support. Anticipating the second transfer, I had already invested $50 in materials like gutters and timber to construct a fascia board. With the second transfer, I spent $355 on acquiring a 5000-liter plastic tank, which is currently being installed. This tank will significantly reduce the frequency of fetching water from the river for my family of 9, eliminating the need to buy from vendors within the village. The transportation cost of $45 was worthwhile, and I am relieved that the tank reached home without any damage."

"I have ambitious plans for the upcoming year and beyond, primarily focused on expanding my goat herd. With this recent transfer, I have acquired one more goat, bringing the total to 16. Given that I live in a dry region with conducive thicket and shrubbery for goat rearing, it is a promising investment. These goats will serve multiple purposes, including providing milk and meat for consumption when needed and serving as a valuable asset for selling to cover expenses like food and school fees for my children. Additionally, I am looking to diversify my agricultural activities and plan to venture into groundnut farming on my 2-acre piece of land, leveraging the available water from the nearby river to manage this new venture efficiently. These plans signify my determination to enhance both my family's sustenance and financial stability."

"After receiving both the first and second transfers from GiveDirectly, providing for my family of nine has become much more manageable. The initial transfer allowed me to purchase essential items, and the second one came in handy. With a detailed list in hand, I prioritized spending $118 on food, ensuring a steady supply of maize and beans for my family. This has brought me a sense of peace, as I no longer need to rely solely on casual labor for our daily bread. Additionally, I invested $20 in a water container to facilitate storage during the rainy season, and $5 as a deposit for a rechargeable solar lighting system, replacing the kerosene lamp. I used $12 for clothes, providing new attire for my two daughters who were struggling with old and tattered clothing, and $65 for various household goods, including toiletries and kitchenware. I am delighted with the improved appearance of our home and the availability of these essential items, which were previously bought in small quantities or missed when funds were scarce. I saved the remaining $230, intending to use it to construct a pit latrine. This project aims to enhance our living standards by promoting better hygiene and proper waste disposal, avoiding contamination of the environment, especially after rainfall."

"As the clock struck 2 PM, I returned from a hearty lunch, and to my surprise, I discovered that my first unconditional cash transfer from GiveDirectly had arrived. Excitement bubbled within me as I handed my phone to my helper, eagerly anticipating the news of the generous sender. As my helper read aloud the message, a wave of relief and gratitude washed over me. The realization that I now possessed the means to afford comfortable bedding and fulfill a long-cherished dream of owning goats filled me with an indescribable joy. In that moment, the weight of financial uncertainty lifted, replaced by a newfound sense of security and the prospect of building a better future."

"Receiving my first unconditional cash transfer marked a turning point in my life. Instead of continuing to rely on temporary jobs for survival, I decided to invest in a venture that would offer long-term stability for my growing family. I used around $250 to kickstart a charcoal-selling business in the neighboring town. The initial days were challenging, navigating the intricacies of entrepreneurship, but as the business gained momentum, I found a renewed sense of purpose and happiness. This venture not only provides for my wife and me but also positions me as the breadwinner for our young family, which we recently started. The joy of expecting our first child added a layer of excitement and responsibility to our lives. I later allocated $50 to buy food, especially considering the well-being of my expectant wife. Ensuring her strength and health during this crucial time has become a top priority. With the remaining funds, I am strategically planning to invest in a motorcycle. This addition to our assets will not only serve as a personal mode of transportation but also open up opportunities for additional income. I harbor dreams of saving for the education of our upcoming children, an aspiration I was unable to fulfill for myself due to a lack of access to quality education. This new chapter in my life, fueled by the unconditional cash transfer, is not just about immediate gains but lays the foundation for a brighter and more secure future for my growing family."

"Moving forward, I intend to utilize my subsequent transfer to continue prioritizing my health. Currently, I rely on my son for financial support, but he is facing financial struggles and finds it burdensome to care for his own family of five children, as well as me. The additional funds will help alleviate some of this burden from my son's shoulders. I am extremely happy and appreciative of the financial assistance I have received, as it has made a significant difference in my life."

"Having built a new house with the assistance of the transferred funds, I am overjoyed to have a roof over my head. The fear of homelessness no longer plagues me. My next objective is to install a door, which will enhance both my personal safety and the security of my belongings within the house. I am immensely thankful for the financial transfers that have provided me with such invaluable support."

"Moving forward, my goal is to utilize my subsequent transfers to seek better medical care and work towards restoring my eyes to their normal functionality. Once I have regained my health, I will be able to engage in farming, which serves as my primary source of income. I intend to use the funds to purchase livestock, specifically goats, so that I can have valuable assets to rely on even after the financial aid comes to an end."

"The transformation in my daily life since I began receiving unconditional cash transfers from GiveDirectly is nothing short of remarkable. The infusion of funds allowed me to bolster my clothing business, and the impact has been tangible, elevating my profits from $3 to a steady $5. This newfound financial stability has enabled me to play a more active role in supporting my spouse in the crucial task of caring for our family. The challenges we faced in ensuring our children attended school regularly, had enough to eat, and, most importantly, slept in a decent shelter were daunting before this assistance. I'm now elated that I can actively contribute to these aspects of our family life. Gone are the days when my children would miss classes, go hungry, or endure nights in poor living conditions. The positive changes in our circumstances are a testament to the impact of GiveDirectly, and I find myself unable to express enough gratitude for the transformative support they've provided."