I was up at 4 a.m. checking on my six-month-old baby when I heard a message notification on my phone. At first, I didn’t pay much attention, but a few minutes later, I picked up my phone to check. When I saw it was money from GiveDirectly, I felt a surge of joy! I couldn’t go back to sleep after that; I was just too excited. I went about my usual morning routine, but my mind was buzzing with plans. As soon as my sister woke up, I shared the news, and she was thrilled too. I’d already decided that I’d use the money to buy clothes for us and help with my brother’s school fees. It felt like such a blessing.

The biggest difference I’ve seen since I received the cash from GiveDirectly is that my house is much neater than it used to be. Before, I only had one bedsheet, which meant I had to wash it, wait for it to dry, and then use it again, leaving me with no choice but to go through that cycle each time. Now, I have four bedsheets, and it feels so good to have options. My bed looks fresh, and I no longer worry about running out of clean bedding. It’s a small change, but it makes a huge difference in how comfortable and organized my home feels. On top of that, I was able to buy some new clothes for myself and my son, and it’s made us both feel more presentable and neat. Now, I feel more confident going out, and my son has clothes that fit him well and look clean. Having these new clothes has lifted a weight off my shoulders—it’s helped us feel more polished and taken care of, and I’m really grateful for that sense of pride in how we present ourselves.

When I received the cash transfer, I first sent $40 to my younger brother in college. He needed it to pay his rent and buy some food items. Normally, my dad would cover this, but his salary had been delayed, so I knew I had to step in. Then, I used $60 to buy clothes for my baby, my sister, and myself, as well as some bedsheets for the house. My baby needed new clothes, and I wanted my sister and me to have something decent as well. I didn't have proper bedsheets either, so I got those to make our space more comfortable and welcoming. It’s important to me that we look presentable and that our home feels inviting, even if it's just a small step. I then paid off $45 in debts I’d borrowed to buy food when I started my cleaning job at the hotel. That money went to essentials because I needed to take care of my baby during a financially tough time. I also sent $10 to my younger brother in high school for his personal needs and gave $15 to my cousin for a school trip, as I know how important that experience is for her. The rest, I used on food items for the house, ensuring we had enough to eat. With these little but essential purchases, I felt like I could finally breathe easier and focus on my work.