I've been sleeping on worn-out mats for years that don't provide comfort. As I age, my focus is on having a comfortable and health-friendly sleeping arrangement. I plan to invest in a new mattress and bed, which will cost $120, and intend to save a portion of transfers every month towards this goal.

In my view,the program arrived just when we needed crucial support, particularly for elderly individuals like us who lack other forms of assistance, even from the government. The monthly transfers have transformed our lives, making it easier to meet our basic needs and ensuring our children's comfort in school. As subsistence farmers, we didn't expect to achieve this independently, and the program has been a game-changer. I am grateful for it, and I anticipate that when it concludes, our lives and families will be significantly improved.

I received the transfer during a period of financial hardship, exacerbated by my reliance on subsistence farming for sustenance which has not been doing well due to inadequate rains. With no other support in my old age from my sons, I had to relocate to live with one of my daughters, who is also a subsistence farmer. The transfers I received were crucial, ensuring a constant food supply. I'm pleased to say I've never gone hungry, as a significant portion of the money was allocated to food. Additionally, I invested in new clothes ($6) and a chair ($5), significantly improving my quality of life. I also purchased three chickens, which, despite lacking a regular income, contribute to my wealth. As they multiply, they offer a potential solution to my ongoing financial needs.

One evening, while I was sitting outside my house, I heard a notification sound coming from my phone. Instantly, I hurried inside to check what it was, even though I am illiterate and cannot read or write. I handed the phone to a relative of mine, who informed me that I had received my first transfer from Give Directly. In that moment, a wave of happiness washed over me, and tears of joy streamed down my plump cheeks. With a grateful heart, I whispered a short prayer, thanking the Lord for this incredible miracle. It was almost unbelievable that the long-awaited financial support I had been promised had finally arrived. This unexpected turn of events filled me with immense relief and gratitude. It provided a glimmer of hope in my life and reassured me that there are people out there who genuinely care and want to make a positive difference. I am forever grateful for this remarkable blessing and the support I have received from Give Directly.

One of the most significant changes I have witnessed is my newfound ability to meet my personal needs, such as purchasing food. Previously, I relied heavily on my daughter, who earned very little from her casual laborer jobs. The financial transfer I received has alleviated the burden on her, allowing me to take care of myself more independently. I am incredibly grateful for this assistance, as it has not only lightened the load on my daughter but also given me a sense of empowerment. Going forward, I will be able to address my own needs with the help of the financial support I have received. This support has the potential to make me more financially self-sufficient and less reliant on others. I am truly thankful for this positive change and the opportunities it brings for a more secure and independent future.

Living alone in Bengoni village without any support, especially as a disabled person, was quite challenging for me. However, the first transfer of $12 that I received proved to be extremely helpful in meeting my basic needs. I used the entire amount to purchase food, which played a significant role in preventing hunger. During that period, the drought conditions were severe, and the prices of food in the stores were exorbitant. The financial assistance I received through the transfer from Give Directly was a lifeline for me, allowing me to afford the necessary sustenance despite the high costs. I am deeply grateful for the support I received. It made a substantial difference in my life, ensuring that I did not go hungry and providing me with a sense of security during a challenging time. The assistance from Give Directly has truly been a blessing for me, and I am thankful for their generosity.