My biggest dream revolves around purchasing a piece of land where I can finally construct a place to call home. Since parting ways with my husband, the discomfort of residing at my parents' house has grown palpable. I've managed to put aside $150 from the second transfer, marking a step toward my aspiration. Presently, I work as a casual laborer, determined to strengthen my savings to $300. This financial milestone will propel me further toward realizing my long-held ambitions, offering me the chance to turn my dream plans into a tangible reality.

GiveDirectly does an excellent job, in my opinion, by embracing everyone without discrimination. Nobody who deserved to be a part of the program was denied admission. The officials showed no bias while registering them. This made a big difference in our lives and taught me and others to appreciate one another. I can't think of anything wrong with GiveDirectly or its procedures. They have always held my hand, and for that, I shall be eternally thankful.

Receiving the second cash transfer of $275 from GiveDirectly was a ray of hope in my life. With careful consideration, I decided to invest $90 in three goats. Goats seemed a wise choice, as they multiply quickly and have a reliable market for sale. Hopeful for a better future, I believed their numbers would grow, giving me a safety net for any future challenges. Another $30 went into purchasing essential food supplies, ensuring that my family wouldn't go hungry. The remaining $150, I safeguarded diligently. My dream of owning a piece of land to build a new home is inching closer to reality. Currently staying at my parents' place due to my separation from my husband, feelings of shame, and a loss of respect are my constant companions. It is not easy to have the life I once envisioned shattered, but the goats and the savings are like rays of sunshine through the clouds. They hold the promise of self-reliance, a renewed sense of purpose, and the chance to stand on my own feet once again.

I was at my farm planting peas when I realized that I had notifications on my phone. Upon checking, I could feel my joy. It was the long-awaited cash transfer that I had eagerly been waiting for. I remember calling all my family members and sharing the news. I immediately withdrew the money and bought food since we had not eaten for two days.

Before receiving the transfers, my five children had been away from school for almost three weeks. This is because the teachers were tired of listening to my false promises of clearing the fees on time. It all happened because I relied on making charcoal and sometimes working on my neighbor's farms to generate an income. The money I got could hardly sustain all our basic needs, including food. Sometimes I was forced to borrow from friends, though it was a bit embarrassing. However, my children ended up being on the bad end more so for providing for their fees. Two had assured me that they would drop out and join me in hustling and supporting the other three, who were still in primary school. This broke my heart, and I felt that I had failed them as a parent. Therefore, having cleared the fees has brought so much joy into my life. Also, they will have ample time in school, which will boost their performances and, hence, a promising future.

When I received the transfers, my four children were at home due to the huge fee balances. I, therefore, had to prioritize this matter and spend almost $380. Seeing them at home loitering here and there stressed me the most because I was worried that they might end up in bad company. However, it all happened because I did not have a steady source of income that I could rely on. I am glad to see them back in class without any disruptions for the remaining months of the year. To add on that, I settled a debt of $70 with a friend, which gave me peace of mind. It reached a point where I used to hide whenever I saw her since I had not been able to acquire her money. This was the worst experience ever. The money I could get from the charcoal activities( $1) on a good day could hardly sustain our basic needs, let alone our debts. Finally, with the remaining amount, I had to buy sufficient food, which took us almost a month.