While I was amidst the task of fetching firewood on my farm, the sudden, loud vibration of my phone shattered the tranquillity of the afternoon. As illiterate as I am, I relied on my children to interpret the message's content. With a mixture of excitement and curiosity, they revealed that it was an M-Pesa message from GiveDirectly. Overwhelmed with gratitude, a surge of emotions washed over me, knowing that this unexpected gift would transform our lives. For so long, I had yearned for the ability to purchase livestock like goats and acquire basic utensils, which had always been borrowed from relatives. With this newfound financial freedom, I could finally provide for my family without relying on the generosity of others, filling me with a profound sense of joy and relief.

Before GiveDirectly came into my life, every day felt like an uphill battle. I had no assets to my name, and as a mother with school-going children and no job, I often felt hopeless, constantly worrying about securing their future. My spouse was also unemployed, leaving us reliant on my daughter's sporadic income from odd jobs just to put food on the table. The prospect of my children pursuing a higher education seemed like an impossible dream. However, everything changed with GiveDirectly. Suddenly, there was a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness. With the cash transfers, I made a strategic decision to invest in goats. These animals weren't just livestock; they were the seeds of a brighter future for my family. As my children grow and prepare for higher education, I know that the goats will become invaluable assets. By the time they're ready for university, I'll have built up a substantial herd, providing the means to pay their fees without the burden of financial strain. GiveDirectly didn't just bring money into my life; it brought hope, opportunity, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow for my children.

For so long, the dream of owning livestock felt like a distant wish, an unattainable luxury amidst financial struggles. Yet, with the unconditional cash transfer, the possibility finally materialized. Investing almost $90 in three goats filled me with a sense of optimism. I knew that these animals would not only provide sustenance but also pave the way for financial stability. As they multiply, I anticipate a future where paying school fees for my five children becomes manageable, alleviating the burdens that once weighed heavily on my shoulders. Alongside this, purchasing utensils for $75 brought a sense of relief, sparing me the humiliation of constantly borrowing from relatives. With the other funds, I prioritized the safety and comfort of my family, investing $52 in renovating my dilapidated house and pit latrine. The threat of collapse loomed over my head, and I couldn't bear the risk of harm befalling my loved ones. Also, the allocation of $130 towards my children's education was a weight off my shoulders, knowing they would no longer face the humiliation of being sent home due to unpaid fees. Lastly, providing food for my nine-member household was a gesture of gratitude, acknowledging the sacrifices made by my daughter, who tirelessly supports us through her casual labor. Though the journey ahead may still be challenging, the impact of the cash transfer has paved the way for a brighter and more hopeful future for my family.