Now that I have a good start with some goats, my big goal is to add a cow to my little animal family. I want to grow my herd of livestock because it means more possibilities for me and my family. A cow can provide us with milk and even more income opportunities. With hard work and the support I got from GiveDirectly, I'm looking forward to making this dream a reality and creating a better future for us all.

In my eyes, GiveDirectly is an uplifting organization. Its support has made a huge difference in my life, providing me with the means to overcome challenges and strive for a better future. The direct assistance it offers, without any strings attached, has allowed me to take control of my circumstances and work towards my goals. The impact of the help is not just financial; it has lifted my spirits, giving me the confidence and motivation to pursue positive changes in my life. I am genuinely grateful for the uplifting support that GiveDirectly has provided, empowering me to build a brighter and more secure future.

When I received the cash transfer from GiveDirectly, the first thing on my mind was my children's education. I used $120 to pay off the school fees arrears for my three primary school kids. It brought me immense joy to see them settled in school, and focused on their studies without any worries. Education is the key, and I was grateful to GiveDirectly for helping me support my children's learning journey. The next priority was ensuring a safe and comfortable home for my family. I allocated $300 to repair the houses of my two sons, changing the roofs from old grass thatching to sturdy iron sheets. Now, they can sleep peacefully without the constant fear of getting soaked during the rainy season. The relief on their faces was worth every penny spent. The remaining amount, I decided to save for family expenses and emergencies, providing a financial cushion for whatever challenges may come our way.

As the clock struck 2 PM, I returned from a hearty lunch, and to my surprise, I discovered that my first unconditional cash transfer from GiveDirectly had arrived. Excitement bubbled within me as I handed my phone to my helper, eagerly anticipating the news of the generous sender. As my helper read aloud the message, a wave of relief and gratitude washed over me. The realization that I now possessed the means to afford comfortable bedding and fulfill a long-cherished dream of owning goats filled me with an indescribable joy. In that moment, the weight of financial uncertainty lifted, replaced by a newfound sense of security and the prospect of building a better future.

Since my spouse passed away a few years ago, I've assumed the responsibility of caring for our seven children entirely on my own. Devoid of external support, I turned to a charcoal business, scraping together about $1 a day to sustain our livelihoods. However, the constant struggle revolved around educating my children, a challenge that weighed heavily on my shoulders. The inability to afford their school fees was a persistent source of stress. It ached to witness my kids at home while their peers were attending school. The frustration of not being able to provide them with a basic education haunted me as a mother. Then, the transformative winds of change blew in the form of unconditional cash transfers from GiveDirectly. This support has been nothing short of a lifeline. For the first time in years, I find joy and relief in the fact that I can send my children back to school. It's a colossal shift from frustration to contentment, a testament to the profound impact that this support has had on not just my financial situation but, more importantly, on the hopes and dreams of my children.

Upon receiving the money, I fulfilled a long-standing dream of owning livestock, particularly goats, given the favorable climate in my region. I invested in the future by purchasing a goat for $30. My hope is that this goat will not only provide companionship but also multiply in number through breeding. The prospect of having a growing herd gives me a sense of financial security, knowing that I can sell some of them if any unexpected financial constraints arise. Later on,I directed a portion of the funds, specifically $145, towards improving the quality of our sleep. For years, I had been enduring nights on traditional beds exposed to the elements. The purchase of a bed and mattress has been transformative. Now, I wake up feeling rejuvenated and ready to tackle the day's tasks. Furthermore, I allocated $80 to pay the school fees for my two children in lower grades. Their education had been inconsistent due to financial challenges, and I worried about their academic performance. The support from GiveDirectly proved to be a timely intervention, ensuring that my children can focus on their studies. With the remaining amount, I secured food for my family of seven children, bringing a sense of relief and stability to our home. As a widow earning around $1 from selling charcoal, every bit of assistance goes a long way in ensuring the well-being and future prospects of my family.