When my parents and only brother passed away 10 years ago, I inherited their farm since I had already separated from my then-husband. I have since been raising my children single-handedly through maize farming, although on a small scale. Since I am guarding my parental land, I cannot dare move out to attend to other businesses but rather continue farming on this land. I plan on cultivating all this 3 acre piece of land, as I hope to get assistance from my son, who is a bodaboda rider in Kilifi, as well as the profits from the maize sales to purchase fertilizers and seedlings to sow on this land.

Finances make something impossible possible. For instance, I understand that without cash, one cannot move a thing, let's say an investment. I am glad that GiveDirectly has made life easier in the community by uplifting lives through unconditional cash transfers. Many families have acquired food as well as assets. I therefore wish the organization would expand this to other parts of the country.

How do you feel seeing your child at home while their peers are at school studying? When my daughter in grade 9 was sent out of school because of $97.50 in arrears, I almost went into depression. I am happy GiveDirectly came to my rescue, for I used $50 to clear part of the school fee arrears, and she was able to get back to school. I am raising my children single-handedly after we separated with my husband and sadly lost my parents and only brother 10 years ago. I often depend on maize and cowpea farming to earn a living. However, the climatic conditions have been unfavorable, for it has been over 3 years without any harvest. I also spent $100 on connecting water to my compound, saved $300 to renovate my house, and spent the rest on food for my family of 2. I am now happy that my family is food-secure and that my child is doing well in school.

I am a widow, and all through, I have been struggling to support my two children. When I was enrolled in the program, I was optimistic that my condition would improve. As a result, I had been anticipating the transfer date eagerly. That evening, we attended a burial for one of my neighbor's children. I was pleased as soon as I received my transfer. I knew I would be able to accomplish my goals. I had a daughter, Prisca, who was to join form one, but I could not afford it. Because I had never received such assistance, I am always happy anytime I recall the day.

After receiving my first transfer, I experienced two positive changes in my life. First, I succeeded in taking my daughter to secondary school. Despite my wish to enroll her, it was tough for me because I did not have money. She would still be at home if I did not receive the transfer. Secondly, I was able to apply for municipal water. As soon as it is fixed, I will have a water supply at my home. As a result, I will be relieved of the stress of traveling a considerable distance to fetch water. We had been suffering from water scarcity due to drought, having to go a significant distance to collect water.

Since I had a daughter who was to join secondary school, I prioritized spending $80 for the admission of my daughter who joined Day school. Because we have been suffering from a shortage of water, I spent $25 on application and fixing for water supply in my home. I am hoping it will begin to function well soon. With the transfer, I have been using the balance on food because we experience a scarce food supply in the area, and the rest I shall use to buy goats. As my flock increases, I will raise additional money for my family's support.