Life has been a relentless struggle ever since my spouse's employment fell victim to scandal, leaving us in a state of financial uncertainty. With four people to feed, the weight of responsibility pressed heavily on me. When the unconditional cash transfer arrived, I seized the opportunity to alleviate some of our burdens. Handing over $200 to settle the debt hanging over my spouse's return to work felt like lifting a boulder off our chests. Though the amount didn't clear the entire debt, it paved the way for a fresh start, a chance to reclaim stability in our lives. With renewed hope, we looked towards the future, knowing that soon my spouse would be back on his feet, free from the shackles of past mistakes. With this weight lifted, I turned to securing our children's education, paying the school fees for my three kids in lower grades with a sense of relief. No longer would they face the threat of being sent home due to unpaid fees, promising brighter academic prospects ahead. Additionally, I ventured into livestock rearing, purchasing a goat with the belief that it would thrive in our region's favorable climate, providing a sustainable source of income in the future. And finally, venturing into the hospitality business with a new hotel in our village was a bold move empowered by GiveDirectly's support. Now, instead of relying on uncertain commission-based income, I had a stable source of profit, earning $6 and laying the foundation for a more secure future for my family.

In my opinion, GiveDirectly has truly excelled. Thanks to their unconditional cash transfers, my family and I have been able to transform our lives. I have invested in assets and started my own hotel business, which is now thriving and providing us with a steady income. Moreover, my children are attending school regularly, something that seemed like a distant dream before. GiveDirectly's support has not only improved my financial situation but has also opened up opportunities for a brighter future for my family.

My primary goal revolves around expanding my livelihood by investing in more livestock, particularly goats, which I intend to procure using the proceeds from my current hotel business. With careful planning and dedication, I believe that this expansion will yield significant returns, providing me with a consistent income stream. This newfound financial stability will not only alleviate the financial burden of supporting my family but also enable me to comfortably afford the education of my three children. By prioritizing their education, I aim to provide them with the tools and opportunities they need to thrive, setting them on a path towards a brighter and more prosperous future.

When I received the first transfer, the first thing I did was buy seven iron sheets to fix our rundown house. Spending $67 on those sheets might seem small, but it meant a lot to us. It was about satisfaction and a secure roof over our heads. After that, I bought two mattresses. My three children and I had been sleeping on the hard floor for too long, and it took a toll on us. I spending $100 on the mattresses. The relief of finally having a good night's sleep was priceless. With another $100, I managed to clear some food bills and other expenses we had borrowed. I also saw it fit to spend $60 on a sack of maize to keep us fed and $80 on a second-hand bicycle. This bike was our ticket to easier water access during the dry season because the water points seemed too far away. As for the remaining amount, I saved it, knowing it would be our safety net in case of emergencies.

Life changed so much after that cash transfer came through. Before, I'd spend every waking moment burning charcoal just to make ends meet. But now, I can finally take a break without worrying that my family will go hungry. Resting wasn't an option before; it meant sacrificing our meals. But with this help, I can breathe a little easier. I have noticed a change in my health too. I'm not as tired all the time, and that feels like a miracle. My family has got food on the table, and I have got a chance to regain my strength.

It was just another evening, busy with chores around the house. As I was sweeping the floor, a message buzzed on my phone. Not being able to read, I turned to my husband, handing him the phone. When he confirmed the news of the cash transfer from GiveDirectly, my heart soared. I couldn't contain my joy; I let out a loud ululation, feeling a surge of happiness rush through me. The enormity of receiving such a significant amount of money for the first time overwhelmed me. It was like a blessing, a light shining in my life, promising a better tomorrow.