My most pressing need had always been to construct a respectable dwelling, having endured years in a modest grass-thatched hut. The idea of residing in a house with a sturdy iron roof felt like a distant dream. However, thanks to the financial support I received, I was able to turn that dream into reality. I successfully built a comfortable iron-roofed house, putting an end to my concerns about rain and adverse weather conditions. This new home is a significant improvement over my previous shelter. Buoyed by this positive change in my life, I am now contemplating expanding my livestock holdings. Currently, I have four goats, all of which I acquired through the support program. My goal is to further develop this asset by allowing them to reproduce, ultimately increasing their numbers. It's heartening to finally possess assets that I can proudly call my own, all thanks to this program.

The program has brought immense benefits to many of us, particularly in addressing pressing needs that once appeared insurmountable. Thanks to this program, we now have new and improved shelters, our children are enjoying a more comfortable educational experience, and, perhaps most significantly, we have acquired livestock, which is considered the most valuable asset in our impoverished region. Achieving these positive changes on our own would have been an uphill battle, but the program has been a transformative force in our lives. All these remarkable improvements can be directly attributed to the support we received through the program. In my perspective, GiveDirectly should continue its commendable work of elevating individuals and communities out of poverty, as it has undeniably made a substantial and positive impact on our lives.

I want to express my profound gratitude to GiveDirectly for their incredible support, which has completely transformed my life in a remarkably short time. Until recently, I was living in a humble grass-thatched hut and the prospect of having a decent home seemed like an unattainable dream until GiveDirectly came. I had spent countless hours replacing the worn-out grass on my roof, and whenever it rained, the leaks were uncontrollable, making my home far from comfortable. Now, I find solace in my new house with a sturdy iron roof, all thanks to the unwavering support from GiveDirectly. My dream of owning a better house has finally become a reality. I purchased building materials such as iron sheets, building poles, and paid for labor, making this transformation the most significant one I've experienced. In addition to building a house, I also acquired goats, the primary source of wealth for those of us living in poverty in my region. Meaningful employment opportunities that can adequately cover our basic needs, such as food, are scarce. I always harboured a deep desire to raise goats someday. With my recent transfers, I decided to invest $120 in purchasing three goats, which I am currently tending to. These goats represent a crucial asset for me, and as they reproduce, I plan to sell their offspring, thereby generating additional income. Furthermore, the transfers have provided much-needed relief in terms of purchasing enough food for my family.

It was around 4 pm when I heard a message tone from my phone. Being unable to read, I handed over the phone to my helper for clarification and she confirmed that I had received the first transfer from GiveDirectly. My heart was filled with joy and happiness for receiving the transfer knowing the journey with GiveDirectly had successfully started. I ululated in happiness since I was not sure such a piece of luck could land on me.

Initially, the struggle was real. Getting some food was a big challenge since I solely relied on making and selling charcoals which was not a reliable business. I used to go up to at least three days a week without food. Currently, I am very grateful for the support I received from GiveDirectly because I changed the hunger song I used to sing. I have now taken a break from going to the forest to make charcoals for sale yet I get food not like before. This could not be the case if it were not for GiveDirectly.

Upon receiving the money, I first opted to build a kitchen. I decided so because I used to get some hard times cooking during rainy seasons. I bought 12 pieces of iron sheets for $114. The kitchen will be of great help to me, especially during the rainy season. Thereafter, I bought three goats for $120 and two sacks of maize for $90. I also paid $80 school fees for my five grandchildren who are orphans and they entirely depend on me. For the remaining amount, I save it for the upkeep of the family.