Despite the setback with my maize crops being swept away by the rains, I'm determined to continue farming. If the rains lessen, I plan to plant crops again because farming provides a reliable source of income. I can sell any surplus and keep some for my family’s consumption. I aim to alternate between growing maize and beans, which is possible since I own half an acre of land near a river. This location allows me to utilize the land even during the dry season by irrigating it, making it possible to keep farming regardless of the weather.

The support I received from GiveDirectly has truly made a difference in my life; its unconditional nature allowed me to address my immediate needs and uplifted me, for which I am very grateful to God. The officers who helped me enroll were respectful, and the entire enrollment process was free and fair, promoting equity. Another great aspect of GiveDirectly is the follow-up process, which ensures that the funds are spent wisely, leading to a positive impact on our community overall. I hope GiveDirectly continues with this same approach.

After receiving my last transfer, I bought 15 goats for $430. Previously, I didn't own any goats; instead, I used to herd someone else's as a job, which paid me $20 per month. I decided to buy my own goats so that as they multiply, I can sell them and use the money to educate my grandchildren. Additionally, with the remaining $20, I used to plow my land and plant maize. Unfortunately, the recent heavy rains have swept away the crop, leaving me to face the setback with hope for better luck next time.

I believe in working hard, and I trust that God will help me succeed. I'm going to do my best to make my farming successful so I can see the results. I have a plan: after I harvest tomatoes, I'll plant green grams. Meanwhile, I'll save up the money I make to improve my living situation. Right now, my house is made of mud and grass, so I want to build a better one. I also want to make sure my grandchildren have an easier time getting an education. My own kids are grown up now and no longer in school, so I'll focus on helping my grandchildren instead.

The first time I heard about GiveDirectly transfers was from people in Sandai and Loboi location. I wondered if they would come to help us too, giving such a big amount. I couldn't believe it when my neighbor told me there was a meeting with GiveDirectly people. I knew we could benefit like those in Sandai and Loboi, who are now wealthy with good houses. I even started planning how to use the money before I was told I'd get it. I was so happy and excited. Those who know how to manage money are now rich because of GiveDirectly. I thank them for helping me and making my dreams come true. My advice to GiveDirectly is to keep helping all counties in Kenya. People are suffering, and I pray that God continues to grow your company so it never fails, and you can keep helping others.

Since I received my second transfer from GiveDirectly, my life has changed. I spent all $450 on agriculture to purchase tomato seeds and prepare the farm to plant one hectare of tomatoes. Initially, I planned to buy a cow, but I decided to invest in tomatoes instead. They do well here, and I'm confident I'll make double the profit compared to buying a cow that might die in drought, leaving me with nothing. Life has been tough for me; I'm a single mother and was never married, so raising a family of six hasn't been easy. Before I received the cash for the first time, I depended on my daughter Mercy, who did casual labor on other people's farms so we could have at least one meal a day. She used to earn $3 per day, which wasn't enough for three meals. I appreciate GiveDirectly for their help. With my first transfer, I opened a small kiosk in my village to sell foodstuff. The profit I make from it helps me buy food, relieving Mercy of the burden of providing for us so she can focus on her two children.

When the notification confirming the receipt of $180 from GiveDirectly popped up on my Phone which was with my daughter at that moment, we were both at home around 6:00 PM. The joy we felt was immeasurable, given our current circumstances where we had been struggling with lots of - hard to find - in order to buy food. We celebrated this unexpected blessing, grateful for the support. The following day, my daughter, who is also my reliable helper, and I dedicated time to strategize on how best to utilize the funds. We refrained from impulsive decisions, opting to ensure that every choice we made was both sound and final. On the third day, we visited a nearby town, where we carefully selected goods at wholesale prices. This experience not only brought a sense of relief but also instilled a renewed hope for a brighter future.

Since receiving the initial transfer from GiveDirectly, the biggest in my daily life has been the alleviation of the struggles associated with casual labor and the occasional uncertainty of missing meals when job opportunities were scarce. I used to wake up early every day, enduring harsh weather conditions, be it scorching sun or heavy rains, while trying to keep up with the fast pace of the goats. Now, I find solace in the fact that I can take a break on days when I feel exhausted, thanks to the income generated from the shop we restocked with the support from GiveDirectly. This stability allows me to plan ahead confidently, knowing that subsequent transfers will follow. The relief from the daily grind has not only improved my financial situation but has also brought a sense of security and gratitude into my life.

For the longest time, I relied on doing casual jobs, moving from one house to another in the village in search of temporary work to earn some daily income. Despite the traditional view that goat herding is a job for men, I chose to do it as it was the only available option. Enduring challenges like heavy rains and keeping up with the fast pace of a large herd became a part of my routine even in my old age. The first transfer brought a sense of relief, reigniting the hope of establishing a sustainable source of income rather than relying solely on hand-to-mouth jobs. Upon receiving the money, we decided to revive our general retail business, which had suffered due to depleted stock. Although the amount wasn't sufficient for our dream of investing in goat farming, a skill I have mastered, we considered the shop a versatile business that needed attention. I invested the entire $180 in restocking the shop, filling all the empty shelves. While I continue to herd goats for a pay in the neighborhood, my daughter manages the shop. I am pleased that the combined income from both sides not only provides daily sustenance for my family of five but also allows us to save and maintain the shop's inventory. On average, my daughter generates around $20 in daily sales, ensuring our daily meals and weekly restocking. I appreciate GiveDirectly for this support and look forward to revisiting the livestock project with subsequent transfers.