Around 2 in the afternoon, I found myself in a quiet moment of relaxation after diligently taking my post-eye surgery medicine. It was then that my daughter, with an infectious smile, shared the news that I had received an unconditional cash transfer from GiveDirectly. A surge of happiness engulfed me, realizing that the days of makeshift sleeping arrangements on traditional beds were finally coming to an end. For years, I had relied on those rudimentary setups, and the thought of transitioning to a comfortable bed and mattress sparked a profound sense of joy. The unconditional support felt like a gift of dignified rest, a reprieve from the discomforts of the past, and a promise of better nights ahead. Gratitude welled within me, not just for the tangible upgrade but for the renewed sense of comfort and stability this unexpected assistance brought to my life.

Since I began receiving unconditional cash transfers from GiveDirectly, the most profound shift in my life has been nothing short of a renaissance. A recent eye surgery left me incapacitated, preventing me from undertaking the strenuous jobs I used to do alongside my spouse in the charcoal industry. This marked a stressful period for my family, as our livelihood depended on our joint efforts in the past. The loss of income made me feel hopeless, but GiveDirectly changed the trajectory of our lives. The pivotal moment came when I used the funds to acquire goats. These creatures, I believe, will be a beacon of support for my family. Not only do they multiply faster, offering a potential solution to any future financial constraints, but they also signify the possibility of new beginnings. As they grow into a herd, I envision settling immediate matters and even embarking on new projects that were once beyond our reach. I am profoundly grateful to GiveDirectly for not only restoring joy and hope to my life but also for empowering me to envision a future filled with possibilities.

For years, I endured restless nights on an uncomfortable traditional bed, battling fatigue and struggling to perform daily tasks. The $70 I received in unconditional monthly cash transfers became a lifeline, allowing me to invest in a new bed and mattress that transformed my sleep quality. The relief of waking up well-rested each morning was immeasurable, and the newfound energy translated into increased productivity throughout my day. No longer tethered by the physical and mental strains of sleepless nights, I realized the profound impact such a seemingly simple purchase could have on my overall well-being.In addition to the bed upgrade, I fulfilled a long-cherished dream by investing $120 in three goats. Despite years of yearning, financial constraints had prevented me from bringing these gentle creatures into my life. Now, with the goats securely in my possession, I not only found joy in their presence but also saw them as a financial safety net. In cases of emergencies, I could sell the offspring and address unforeseen challenges. With the remainder of the cash, I ensured that my family's basic needs were met, especially in terms of food. My husband's inconsistent income from a daily charcoal business, making around $5, often left us with empty stomachs. Now, being able to provide at least two meals a day for my family brought a sense of relief and gratitude, turning the monthly cash transfers into a catalyst for positive change in our lives.