After receiving the first transfer, I prioritized erecting a sturdy fence around an open field adjacent to my homestead to protect it from stray livestock and wild animals. Now, I am in the process of preparing the land for planting, hoping that the current rainfall will be sufficient for the maize I plan to sow. Thankfully, the savings I had set aside for house construction before the transfers arrived can now be redirected toward this new farming venture. My aim is to produce enough food for my children and generate surplus for sale, allowing me to reinvest the proceeds into further farming activities in the next season.

GiveDirectly has earned praises in our village for its effective approach to providing support. Unlike other aid initiatives known from other organizations, GiveDirectly's support stands out for its unique feature of granting us the opportunity to make informed decisions based on our individual household needs. Initially, some of us were skeptical about receiving aid in the form of cash, but so far, GiveDirectly's approach has proven to be highly effective, allowing us the flexibility to address a wide range of challenges from school fees payment, construction of new houses, foodstuff, and even securing plots. Personally, I cannot see a better way to receive support than the approach taken by GiveDirectly. While I remain open to alternative forms of aid from other organizations, I would highly recommend that they emulate GiveDirectly's model.

For a long period, my family of four resided in a modest structure comprising mud walls and iron sheet roofing, divided into two rooms to accommodate us comfortably. The support from GiveDirectly marked a turning point as it enabled me to start the construction of a new house using the second transfer, and completed it with the final transfer. With $330 allocated for the purchase of cement, sand, and gravel, we transformed the dwelling from a flat-roofed structure to one with a gable roof and three spacious rooms. I allocated $80 for labor charges, ensuring the project's timely execution. The remainder of the funds went towards purchasing a sack of dry maize grains, addressing our food needs amid the challenges of insufficient harvests during dry seasons. The transformation in our living conditions has been truly remarkable, and we are profoundly grateful for the support provided by GiveDirectly.

In the coming year, my goal is to expand my agricultural endeavors into extensive farming to secure both food and income for my family of four. I believe that venturing into extensive farming will not only enhance our food security but also provide additional avenues for generating income. One of my key strategies for initiating this venture is to foster strong relationships with my fellow farmers, as I recognize the importance of solidarity and mutual support in this line of work. By collaborating and learning from each other's experiences, we can collectively overcome challenges and thrive in our agricultural pursuits. To kickstart this new venture, I estimate that I will need a capital investment of $200. I plan to gradually accumulate this amount by saving a portion of the profits from my poultry farming activities. With careful budgeting and financial management, I am confident that I can reach this goal within a reasonable timeframe.

I truly appreciate GiveDirectly's approach. Everything so far has worked out wonderfully, and I see no need for any changes in their approach. The direct cash transfers allowed me to address our immediate needs and make significant improvements to our living situation. It is empowering to have the flexibility to decide how to use the funds based on what is best for my family. I am grateful for the support we received and for the opportunity to improve our quality of life. GiveDirectly's assistance has made a tangible difference in our lives, and I am hopeful that they can continue to uplift more families like mine in the future.

I am overjoyed with the transformation my family's life has undergone since receiving the transfers. With them, I was able to completely renovate our two-room house, turning it into a comfortable shelter for my family of four. Previously, we endured the constant threat of our mud-walled house collapsing whenever it rained. Now, waking up in our new home fills me with gratitude and admiration every single day. My main source of income comes from poultry farming, and every dollar earned goes towards essential needs like school fees and putting food on the table with nothing to save. It is not always easy juggling the responsibilities of running a household and ensuring my family's well-being, but seeing the smiles on their faces makes it all worthwhile. I am determined to continue working hard, nurturing my poultry farm, and providing the best possible future for my loved ones.

It was a somber afternoon, the weight of financial strain pressing down on me as I waited at home with my two hungry children. The clock struck 3 pm, and just when desperation seemed to loom, a message delivered a glimmer of hope. My husband, my beacon in these challenging times, had sent money. Relief washed over me, and my immediate instinct was to transform our meager pantry into a feast. Racing to a nearby center, I found my husband, and together we navigated the aisles, turning the modest funds into a shared supper, a simple yet profound moment of familial resilience and togetherness.

The impact of the recent transfer echoed far beyond its monetary value; it resonated in the newfound joy that enveloped my life and family. The catalyst for this transformation was the decision to invest in a fence, a simple structure that brought profound change. As the wire wrapped around our compound, it wasn't just about security; it was about weaving dreams into reality. Now, happiness permeates the air in our home, a stark contrast to the uncertainties that once lingered. The most significant change unfolds within the realm of possibility — the dream of a home garden. A vision I once deemed unattainable is now taking root, quite literally. The fence not only safeguards us but opens the door to cultivate my aspirations, turning a barren space into the canvas for my dream garden. In the blossoming flowers and thriving plants, I find a metaphor for the positive shifts in our lives. The biggest change isn't just the physical barrier that surrounds us; it's the intangible transformation of dreams into tangible, fragrant realities.

With the recent influx of $200, my first instinct was to fortify the sanctuary of my home. Living perilously close to the road, insecurities loomed not only for my husband, two kids, and me but also for our cherished belongings. Swiftly, I invested in security by fencing our compound with sturdy wire, erecting a barrier against the uncertainties that lurked nearby. The newfound sense of safety fueled my optimism, and I envisioned cultivating a home garden, transforming our space into a haven of growth and sustenance. Additionally, I ensured that the immediate needs were met, purchasing nourishing food for my family. In these choices, I found not just security but also the seeds of a brighter, more self-sufficient future, and the satisfaction in providing for those I hold dear.