I live alone, and one evening my neighbor came to inform me that GiveDirectly had sent money. Since I am old and can't read, I had to wait for my assigned helper. After a week, when he finally came, he confirmed that GiveDirectly had indeed sent the transfer. I was so happy and filled with gratitude because this support meant so much to me. The first thought that came to my mind was to use the money to buy a bed and a mattress, something I really needed. I felt a great sense of relief, knowing that I could now improve my comfort and rest better.

The biggest difference since I started receiving cash transfers from GiveDirectly has been in my bedding, health, and food. Before I received these transfers, I used to sleep on the floor, which was very uncomfortable. Now, I sleep on a comfortable bed with a mattress, and this has greatly improved my well-being. Despite my age, I feel young again. Additionally, before the GiveDirectly cash transfers, I relied heavily on my son to take care of my bills. Now, with the money I received, I have been able to buy food, which has enabled me to be self-dependent. Lastly, after being bitten by a snake, I used some of the money to seek the necessary medical attention. This would have been difficult without the transfer. Overall, these changes have had a positive impact on my life, and I am truly grateful for the support from GiveDirectly.

After receiving $180 from GiveDirectly, the first thing I needed to address was my bedding. I had been sleeping on the floor and had never owned a mattress before. So, I used $80 to buy a bed and a comfortable mattress. Now, my nights have changed for the better. I enjoy my sleep, and my health and overall well-being have improved. I no longer feel old and tired. Next, I used $70 to buy food. It was important for me to stock up on food since my age limits my ability to work. I don’t have much energy, and I depend on my younger son for help. With this food, I can rely less on him, as I now have enough to eat and can take regular meals. During that time, I was bitten by a snake, and I used $15 to get the necessary medication. Thankfully, I am back to my normal health now. Without the money from GiveDirectly, I wouldn’t have been able to afford the medical attention I needed after such a serious attack. Finally, I used the remaining money to pay my youngest child's school fees. I didn’t want him to be chased away from school for lack of fees, so I made sure he could continue his education. This support from GiveDirectly has made a significant difference in my life and the lives of my family members.