Before the floods hit us, I had prepared a one-acre plot where I grew beans and vegetables, but everything was destroyed. Farming has always been my main way of ensuring food security for my family, so this loss created a serious challenge for us. Now, as our lives are beginning to return to normal, I’m planning to restart farming on my one-acre plot. To enhance my efforts, I aim to purchase a water pump for $250, which will enable early cultivation and timely preparations. By farming on schedule, I hope to secure a successful harvest and provide enough food for my family.

The program came at the perfect time, just when we were in severe distress after being forced to relocate due to the floods that destroyed our homes. Without this support, we would have faced immense hardship, and we are deeply grateful for it. As our lives begin to normalize after the shock of the floods, we have been able to rebuild our homes and replace essential household items we lost, helping us regain stability. The unconditional transfers from GiveDirectly have been invaluable in helping us improve our lives during such a challenging time. In fact, I believe they’ve done everything exceptionally well to support our community.

The recent floods devastated my home, which was primarily built with iron sheets and wood. The water ruined most of my belongings, and I was only able to salvage a few items. Since then, it has been a struggle for my family of eight, as we lack adequate shelter. Receiving the transfer was a tremendous relief. With the recent funds, I spent $240 on building materials—10 iron sheets, timber, and nails—to build a single-room shelter for my family. I was also able to install a new door and a window, providing us with a safer and more secure space. In addition, I paid $50 in school fees for my daughter, ensuring that she stayed in class without interruptions. I also used $35 to purchase a small solar panel, which has been invaluable as a reliable source of light for our household. On top of that, I invested $60 in buying a sheep, adding to my existing livestock. I now have three sheep, which I see as an investment for the future, as they can multiply and provide additional support for my family. The remaining amount went towards buying essential food items, like a bag of maize and sugar, which have helped ensure that we have enough to eat.

I was at home, checking on my goats, when my daughter suddenly called out, "Mom, you have received money!" I rushed over to confirm, and when I saw the notification, I confirmed that I had received $200 from GiveDirectly, just as they had promised. Together with my daughter, we were filled with joy. The first thing I did was pray and thank God for this blessing. In that moment, I knew that my plans were finally going to be fulfilled.

Now that I have been enrolled and received my first transfer from GiveDirectly, my long-term goal of owning a generator and pipes is finally within reach. This will enable me to fulfill my plan of improving crop production without the constant struggle of borrowing equipment. In the past, I often failed to secure what I needed, leading to the loss of crops after leasing land. Thanks GiveDirectly, I can now invest in my future and work towards a more stable and successful farming operation.

With the support from GiveDirectly, I was finally able to address some of the most pressing needs in my home using my first transfer. First, I purchased a bed and mattress for my son, costing $62, as he had been sleeping on a worn-out mattress on the floor, which was not only uncomfortable but also dangerous in our snake-prone area. I also bought a bag of maize for $40, as food had become scarce after I lost all my maize to floods, which had been my main source of sustenance and other essentials. To commemorate GiveDirectly’s support and to help diversify our income, I decided to buy a goat for $50, symbolizing our gratitude and offering the potential for future financial stability as the goats multiply. Additionally, I spent $8 on transportation, and with the remaining funds, I bought clothes for my children. It had been a long time since I could afford new clothes, and this was essential, especially after losing some of our belongings to the floods. These improvements have brought us relief and hope. Thank you, GiveDirectly.