"When I received the message, I instantly recognized it as coming from GiveDirectly, and an overwhelming sense of happiness washed over me. This moment arrived that time when my financial situation was dire, and I lacked the means to meet my needs. Upon receiving the message, my thoughts turned to a practical solution, investing in sheep. In our region, sheep farming has proven to be a lucrative venture, and they grow rapidly in our local environment. Having a flock of sheep within our compound would serve multiple purposes. Not only would they assist in controlling weed growth, but they would also serve as a source of income for our family, the concept of having sheep seemed like a beacon of hope. In addition to the practical benefits, the financial stability that raising sheep could provide was a prospect that resonated deeply with me. This opportunity opened up a path towards self-sufficiency and a way to ensure our family's needs were met."

"I am determined to work towards regaining a goat herd, knowing that their presence can contribute to our family's financial stability. The resilience and resourcefulness I've developed through previous challenges make me confident that I can achieve this goal. Expanding my farm is another aspiration that resonates deeply with me. By growing my farm and diversifying the crops I cultivate, I aim to generate additional income by selling the farm products. This expansion reflects my commitment to work towards greater financial independence and securing our future. Building a better house for our family is a priority born out of the desire for improved living conditions. The current iron sheet house is inadequate in terms of both space and health considerations. The support and opportunities provided by GiveDirectly have empowered me to make positive changes in our lives."

"My plans for the future are centered around growth, education, and providing a secure and fulfilling life for my family. One of my primary goals is to extend my studies, a journey that was unfortunately interrupted due to the lack of funds. Education is a powerful tool that opens doors to new opportunities and expands one's horizons. By continuing my studies, I aim to acquire valuable knowledge and skills that will contribute to the well-being of my family. Equally important to me is raising my family well and ensuring their basic needs are met. I am also committed to providing a loving and nurturing environment where my family can thrive. I want to instill strong values, offer guidance, and create cherished memories. These include providing for their education, health, and overall well-being. The transfers from GiveDirectly have given me a stepping stone towards achieving these goals."

"In the early evening, I was returning home after gathering firewood when my daughter, who also assists me, arrived with some incredible news. As I was still settling in, she shared that the long-awaited transfer had finally been sent. The moment was truly exhilarating, filling my heart with immense joy and relief. Instantly, I realized that the persistent concern of insufficient food would now be a thing of the past."

"Currently, I am tending to a pair of goats, and my aspiration for the upcoming year and beyond is to expand this number. Previously, my financial resources were primarily directed towards procuring sustenance, leaving little room for acquiring livestock. However, the positive outcome of a productive harvest has notably alleviated my family's concern about food scarcity. As a result, I am now in a position to consider investing in the acquisition of additional goats, thus enhancing the capacity of my goat shed. Given the absence of a regular income source, the potential to sell offspring from the expanded herd offers a reliable solution to address any future financial challenges."

"I missed out on the chance for an education due to financial limitations, and I am determined to spare my children from a similar fate. It's my earnest desire to witness them fulfill their aspirations. Among my six children, two are pursuing high school education, while the remaining four are in primary school. Given my advanced age and the inability to partake in physical labor, the task of funding their education would have posed significant challenges. However, the financial assistance I've received has proven immensely beneficial. At this stage in my life, my primary objective revolves around ensuring that my children's educational aspirations are realized. The timely payment of their school fees has become my utmost focus and purpose."

"In the upcoming months, I am planning to buy a new bed and mattress to replace the old traditional bed and worn-out mats that have been my sleeping arrangements for years. The current traditional bed fails to provide a comfortable sleeping experience, and my aim is to secure a restful and comfortable sleeping environment. I am confident that with the assistance I've received, I will be able to afford these new bedding essentials. Moreover, my intention extends to purchasing additional goats. I am no longer burdened with the expenses of buying food, thanks to a successful harvest that has alleviated past food shortages. This change in circumstance has created an opportunity for me to buy more livestock, especially goats, a venture that I am eager to pursue."

"In the upcoming year and beyond, I have a plan to acquire goats with the intention of raising and breeding them. Given my elderly, weak, and visually impaired condition, I am no longer able to engage in regular work. Thus, establishing a livestock venture is the most feasible undertaking for me. This initiative not only aligns with my capabilities but also provides a potential source of income in case of urgent financial needs. In previous years, an extended period of drought prevented me from buying livestock, as I spent my transfer on providing food and covering my grandchildren's school fees. Fortunately, my recent successful farming efforts resulted in a substantial harvest. This achievement has significantly reduced my food-related expenses. I am now in a position to venture into goat rearing. I am planning to invest in acquiring goats in the near future, thereby securing valuable living assets for myself."

"In the coming year, I'm focusing on expanding my livestock rearing, this will be by acquiring more goats and also enhance my poultry farming. At the same time, I'm ensuring my daughter's education is not interrupted by lack of school fees, as she relies solely on me for support. I am embarking on a journey of personal sacrifices. Every financial choice I make will be based on improving our tomorrow, all while upholding the cherished memories of those I've lost."

"GiveDirectly has undeniably achieved a remarkable job by completely transforming every household in the village, enabling improvements in housing, livestock ownership, food security, and access to education through school fees for our children, all made possible by the impactful free cash transfers we received from GiveDirectly. Previously constrained to two meals a day, we now have the joy of partaking in three meals daily. The enhancement of our farming activities bodes well for sustaining our families' food supply. However, it's my suggestion that GiveDirectly focuses on fostering equity, especially for differently-abled individuals who remain under the care of their parents; despite the majority of households directing the cash assistance towards aiding the disabled, there's an opportunity for GD to better address their specific needs and circumstances."