At present, I am running a food business every Tuesday during market days. This venture has been instrumental in financing our ongoing farming activities. Moving forward, I am looking to expand my agricultural endeavors on the acre of land I own. My goal is to maximize its potential, not only to ensure ample production of food for our own sustenance but also to generate a surplus that can be sold, providing us with a steady source of income. This vision represents a significant step towards achieving greater self-sufficiency and financial stability for myself and my family. It underscores my commitment to long-term agricultural growth and prosperity.

I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the outstanding work done by GiveDirectly in our village. Their unrestricted cash support has made a significant impact, enabling us to address our most pressing needs and invest in our future without constraints. I firmly believe that this approach is highly effective and should remain unchanged. GiveDirectly's remarkable flexibility and trust in its recipients empower us to make the best decisions for our unique situations. Therefore, it is crucial that GiveDirectly continues to uphold the principle of unrestricted support. This approach empowers communities like ours to rise above poverty and build a more secure and prosperous future.

After receiving the second transfer from GiveDirectly, my spouse and I were determined to make the most of this final chance. We went to the nearby shopping center with a well-planned budget of $200. Our first investment was in a heifer, which we hoped would boost our milk production in the future. We also purchased a sheep for $30, with the idea of using it to generate income for us. Our ultimate goal was to acquire another cow, considering our successful history in cattle rearing. To diversify our income streams, we bought six chickens for $39. These chickens were already laying eggs and provided us with a steady source of income to cover our daily expenses. We also allocated $50 for new clothing, including a sweater, a dress, two shirts for my husband, and two pairs of trousers. With $210 left, we decided to save it for household goods, including food. Our family had dwindled to just the two of us, as our children had embarked on their own journeys. These investments and improvements have brought us a sense of security and stability, ensuring a brighter future for our small household.

When I received the first transfer from GiveDirectly, I was extremely happy. It was around 5:00 p.m. when I received a message confirmation that I could not doubt after reading through the message with the exact amount I expected from GiveDirectly. I was with my daughter at the time because my husband was out doing his usual casual chores. When he returned home that evening, he was delighted to learn that the first transfer had been received. In the midst of the excitement, we reviewed our plans and decided to collect the money the following day.

I have been so happy since the first transfer that everyone in the house has noticed and acknowledged the difference. With the daily challenges that can be overwhelming, such happiness has never been common, but since the first transfer, I have been able to do a lot that has brought joy to my life and the lives of other household members. I am hopeful that with the upcoming transfer, I will be able to complete all of my goals.

I had a lot to do after receiving my first transfer, but I had to prioritize furnishing my house, which had a lot missing inside. To fill the empty spaces in the sitting room, I spent $80 on furniture, purchasing two seats and a table. I am glad the house looks better now, and that more visitors can sit comfortably. I also spent $40 on a mattress that has provided my husband and me with better sleep. We used to sleep on the old mattress, which allowed us to feel the bed frames while lying on it. We are currently sleeping soundly through the night at the moment. In addition, I spent $50 on groceries for my family of five, $95 on new clothes for my daughter, husband, and myself. Everyone is thankful for the help that has completely transformed our wardrobe. I also purchased five chickens with the intention of keeping, breeding, and selling their products and offspring as an additional source of income in the future. I still have money in my savings account that I intend to add to the next transfer and use to purchase a dairy cow.