I plan to invest more in livestock farming because it’s something I genuinely love and find fulfilling. Currently, I have five goats and ten sheep, which have already made a significant impact on my life by providing milk and contributing to my household needs, such as school fees and food. I have never had to buy milk since we get it directly from our goats, which is not only cost-effective but also ensures that my family enjoys fresh, nutritious milk. My ambition is to gradually expand my herd to over 100 animals, including more goats and sheep, as well as introducing cows into my farm. To achieve this goal, I intend to reinvest the proceeds from my crop farming and surplus income from my business, ensuring that I can grow my livestock operation sustainably without financial strain. With this careful planning, I am confident that I will be able to meet all my family's needs without struggle.

What GiveDirectly does best is supporting the poor through unconditional cash transfers, which have uplifted many families in our community. I truly believe that this support was sent by God because, without GiveDirectly, we would not be where we are today. This assistance has been an answer to our prayers, especially for the most vulnerable, and I pray that God blesses you for your efforts. Personally, as a widow, I have been praying for opportunities during my struggles, and GiveDirectly has truly been a blessing in my life. Moreover, I appreciate that before enrollment, the organization held clear and informative meetings, ensuring we understood everything about the transfer and the organization. It was entirely our choice whether to enroll. Your work is excellent, and I don’t see any areas for improvement. Please continue your great efforts.

Five months ago, I realized the importance of proper sanitation, especially after enduring the unhygienic conditions of using the bush. To address this, I constructed a temporary latrine using old maize bags and makeshift materials, but it was far from ideal. When I received my second cash transfer, I seized the opportunity to build a proper latrine with cemented flooring, iron sheet walls, and a roof, complete with a door, spending $280. This improvement ensured my family's hygiene and enhanced our dignity. Additionally, I allocated $100 from my transfer for my two boys in high school, giving $50 to each. With total school fee arrears of $150, I managed to pay down my debt, leaving me with a balance of $50. Raising their fees has always been a struggle, especially since I have been solely responsible for my children after losing my husband over ten years ago. My income primarily comes from charcoal production and, occasionally, crop farming. To supplement our income, I started a small business buying and selling vegetables and fruits, investing $70. This investment has provided me with an alternative source of income, easing the financial burden and allowing me to better provide for my children. As we speak, I no longer worry about food, and I have moved away from casual jobs and charcoal production. Thank you, GiveDirectly.

I was at home preparing meals for my family around 6 pm when I decided to check my phone. To my surprise, I saw that money from GiveDirectly had been sent to me earlier. I was so happy! I immediately told my children that we had received money, and they were just as excited as I was. They had been sent home to fetch school fees, and this money couldn't have come at a better time.

I used to rely entirely on casual labor and charcoal burning to survive, but it was never enough. The money I earned could barely cover food for my family, and paying school fees for my children became nearly impossible after I lost my husband. Every day, I prayed for a miracle, asking God to help me find a way out of this struggle. Then, one day, GiveDirectly came into my life, and it was truly an answer to my prayers. With the transfers, I was finally able to pay my children’s school fees and used part of the money to start a small business, which has been a game-changer for me. Now, I’m earning extra income through the business, and I no longer have to depend on hard, unpredictable casual jobs. The difference this has made in my life is beyond words—I'm more stable, less stressed, and can provide for my children in ways I never could before.

My two sons had been sent home from high school to collect their school fees, and I used $100 to pay what was due. It was such a relief because they could finally return to school without further interruptions. I also used $15 to pay the fees for my daughter, who is in Grade 8. The timing couldn’t have been better, as I had been worried about how to keep them in school. I spent $35 on a bag of maize, which was essential since we had been struggling to buy food due to my reliance on casual jobs. Knowing that I wouldn’t have to worry about our next meal brought me a sense of security I hadn’t felt in a while. I also used $10 to buy sugar and cooking oil, which are necessities that have been difficult to afford lately. The remaining amount, though small, allowed me to start a small grocery business. I knew that depending solely on casual labor wasn’t sustainable, so I invested the little money left to buy mangoes, oranges and spices to sell.This little business gives me a way to earn more consistently, helping to stabilize our household finances. It’s a small start, but it offers hope for a better future.