I have decided to invest in livestock, specifically goats, as they thrive well and withstand harsh climatic conditions. This decision stems from my experience with farming, which, unfortunately, has proven unreliable. Over the past three years, we've endured disappointing harvests due to unpredictable rainfall patterns. In contrast, goats offer a more stable option. Rearing goats serves multiple purposes. They can be sold to generate income and provide milk, adding nutritional value to our daily diet. This dual benefit makes goats a practical and valuable asset for my family. Turning to livestock farming feels like a strategic shift, one that aligns better with our environmental conditions and financial needs. It presents a hopeful path towards a more sustainable and secure future. I hope that this investment in goats will lay the foundation for steady progress and stability for my family.

GiveDirectly's support arrived at the perfect moment for us, precisely when facing economic challenges. This stands out, providing a lifeline our government might not easily replicate. We consider ourselves fortunate to have been selected for this impactful program. The officers from GiveDirectly have been exceptional – patient, considerate, and respectful. Their choice of words reflected their professionalism, and they exhibited commendable patience, even waiting for me to finish my meal before attending to me. This level of care and attention goes beyond what one might expect. Thank you, GiveDirectly, for your unwavering support. Your approach sets a standard for compassionate assistance that makes a difference in the lives of those in need. Keep up the admirable work, and may your efforts continue to positively impact many more lives.

I am immensely thankful for the support from GiveDirectly. With their assistance, I purchased three goats for $170, a token of remembrance and a long-term investment for my family. Additionally, I spent $15 on deworming the goats to ensure their health and productivity. Food security being a priority, I allocated $95 for buying maize. Crucial as my previous attempt at farming maize, alongside beans, yielded poor results. My family's sustenance largely relies on small-scale farming, which is challenging given our dependence on a seasonal river for irrigation. My husband and I also undertake casual jobs to support our family of seven. I am an Early Childhood Development teacher by profession, and my husband, a plant operator, facing employment challenges. The timing of the GiveDirectly transfer was perfect, coinciding with the Christmas holiday. I used $60 of the funds to buy clothes for my children, a festive gesture that brought them immense joy. Education remains a priority for us. Thus, I invested $10 in books for my three school-going children and paid $20 towards their fee arrears. I used $70 on constructing a toilet, a much-needed facility in our home, ending our dependence on neighbors’ amenities. which brought us great relief and happiness. The remaining $10 addressed transport costs. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to GiveDirectly for their invaluable support, which has s improved our living conditions and brought hope and stability to our lives.

I have a clear memory of the day I received the transfer; it was in the evening, and I was busy with baby laundry when a message notification appeared on my phone. I quickly checked it, and to my amazement, it was the GD money we had been eagerly anticipating! Overwhelmed with joy, I couldn't contain my excitement; I shared the fantastic news with my children, who were equally thrilled. Later, when my spouse returned, we eagerly gathered together, planning our exciting next steps with the unexpected windfall. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation and hope for a brighter future.

Receiving the transfer has significantly improved my life. Now, I have enough food to nourish my baby, bringing me immense relief. My children are delighted because they can now sleep comfortably, a luxury we didn't have before. Moreover, I managed to plant the troublesome piece of land that had been causing me stress. Thanks to the timely funds, I could sow my crops alongside my neighbors, taking advantage of the rainy season. This has eased my worries and filled me with hope for a fruitful harvest.

I allocated $50 to of the transfer to prepare my half-acre of land, which had long been neglected due to financial constraints, taking advantage of the current rainy season. With seeds already in my possession, I diligently cultivated the land and planted beans, anticipating a fruitful harvest. The proceeds from this harvest will not only sustain my family of seven but also provide an opportunity for selling surplus produce. Recognizing the need for better sleeping arrangements, I invested $30 in a new bed for my two boys, ensuring they no longer had to share a cramped space with their sisters. Their joy at having their own comfortable beds was heartwarming. Additionally, I spent $60 on purchasing food, vital for nourishing my family, ensuring their well-being. In a bid to secure a brighter future for my children, I acquired a goat using the remaining amount, expanding my livestock. This addition is not only a valuable asset but also a means to generate income through the sale of offspring. These thoughtful investments reflect my dedication to providing a stable and prosperous life for my family.