This year, my main goal is to expand my goat herd. I believe that by buying more goats, I can secure a sustainable source of income even after the GiveDirectly transfers stop. Goats are resilient animals that thrive in various conditions, and they provide milk, meat, and offspring that can be sold or used for breeding. By investing in goats, I aim to create a stable foundation for my future, ensuring that I can continue to support myself and my family independently. With careful planning and dedication, I am confident that this goal will lead to long-term prosperity and self-reliance.

I have no recommendations to make because I am genuinely grateful for GiveDirectly. The support they have provided has made a significant difference in my life. With their help, I've been able to meet my basic needs and overcome financial hardships. Instead of seeking additional assistance or advice, I simply want to express my heartfelt appreciation for the generosity and support of GiveDirectly. Their assistance has been invaluable, and I am truly thankful for the positive impact it has had on my life.

Receiving $450 from GiveDirectly brought a wave of possibilities into my life. At 84 years old, I knew exactly how I wanted to utilize these funds. Firstly, I prioritized security for myself and my belongings by investing $330 to fence my compound. This decision not only brings peace of mind but also ensures a safe environment. With dreams of starting a small home garden, I allocated some funds to purchase fruit trees like mangos, known to thrive in our region of Baringo. This venture not only promises fresh produce but also fills my days with purpose and joy. Recognizing the importance of nourishment, I set aside $40 to buy food, ensuring that my nutritional needs are met. Lastly, fulfilling a longstanding desire, I dedicated $50 towards my grandson's cultural circumcision ceremony, a meaningful tradition I've always wanted to support. Overall, these funds have enabled me to enhance my security, invest in my future, nurture my well-being, and celebrate cherished traditions.

The moment I received my transfer, I can distinctly remember that I was at home, busy with the house chores, when my son shared remarkable news with me. He joyfully informed me that the long-awaited transfer from GiveDirectly had finally arrived. It was indeed the happiest day of my life, and I was filled with overwhelming joy and gratitude. The excitement was beyond measure, realizing that this transfer marked the beginning of my long-held dream to build a respectable home for myself. The arrival of the funds brought immense happiness into our lives, and we will forever grateful.

This support has played a crucial role in facilitating the acquisition of a sack of maize, a precious resource that ensures a consistent and abundant food supply for my household. This stands in stark contrast to the past when we lived on a hand-to-mouth basis. It signifies a notable departure from the hardships we once faced, where the constant struggle to meet ends was fueled by unreliable sources of income. Additionally, I bought building materials so that I can renovate my house. I am filled with overwhelming gratitude for the support we've received, as it has significantly enhanced our overall quality of life.

Upon receiving the transfer, I saw it as the perfect opportunity to acquire crucial building materials for constructing a decent house, a dream that financial constraints had previously hindered. Due to my advanced age, working is a challenge, and I rely on my children and small-scale farming for sustenance. As a widow living alone, I dedicated $113 to purchase building materials, including iron sheets and nails. Additionally, I set aside $14 for future needs. The remaining $73 was wisely used to procure essential food items like maize, vital for our well-being. I am delighted to now have an ample food supply at home, a significant improvement from the past when affording even one meal a day was a challenge. Thus, I am forever grateful for the positive change in our circumstances.