"At approximately 3:00 p.m., I was occupied removing the frames from my roof with the intention of replacing the entire roof due to the frames being infested with ants and the old iron sheets being rusted and aesthetically unpleasing. These materials were deteriorating due to their age. While enduring the intense heat on top of the roof, I contemplated the option of obtaining iron sheets on credit to complete the project, as I had exceeded the budget originally allocated for it. Suddenly, my phone peeped, prompting me to swiftly retrieve it from my pocket to check the message. I was elated to discover that it was an Mpesa message confirming the receipt of a GD transfer. In response to this positive development, I descended from the roof and shared the joyful news with my children, who were playing outside. Their collective happiness mirrored my own, knowing that our roof renovation would soon be a reality, thanks to the timely transfer."

"Being able to sleep under a good roof and clearing fees"

"A portion of my recent unconditional cash transfer was a lifeline for much-needed improvements to my living conditions. I invested $1.7 in acquiring two pieces of iron sheets with the goal of renovating my home, which has been plagued by terrible leaks. Currently, my dwelling is a work in progress, with around seven sheets in place. With each passing month's cash transfer, I am hopeful that I can gradually transform my home into a secure haven where my family of five won't have to worry about being rained on. The previous conditions were dire; not only did the leaking roof expose us to the elements, but it also brought a constant sense of insecurity. Now, with the promise of a more stable and comfortable living space, I look forward to brighter days. Moreover, I allocated a portion of the remaining funds, almost $17.7, to purchasing foodstuffs. Being jobless, I depend on my children for our livelihood, and putting food on the table has been a persistent challenge. This investment in sustenance not only ensures that I reduce the burden on my children but also brings a profound sense of relief, knowing that I can now provide for my family's daily needs and, at the very least, enjoy two meals a day. The unconditional cash transfer has not just been a financial boost but a lifeline, allowing me to address immediate concerns and work towards a more secure and stable future for my family."

"My paramount goal is to construct a new home for my family. The current one, small and in disrepair, has subjected us to the elements, especially during the unforgiving rain. Watching my two children endure these conditions has been a source of deep anguish for me as a parent. The dream of building a new, more spacious, and more secure house represents more than just shelter; it embodies the promise of happiness and a renewed sense of hope. I envision a home where my children can thrive, free from the worry of leaking roofs and cramped quarters. With determination and hard work, I aim to turn this vision into reality, forging a brighter future filled with warmth, comfort, and the joy that comes from providing a safe haven for those I hold dearest."

"Looking ahead, my primary objective is to construct a new house for my family. The deteriorating condition of my current house, exacerbated by heavy rains, forced me to move in with relatives recently. The leaking grass-thatched roof made the space swampy and cold, rendering it unsuitable for habitation. Over the past year, I've been saving some of the cash transfers through a self-help group. When the group dissolves next year, I plan to utilize the savings to purchase building materials such as iron sheets and building poles, initiating the construction of a new two-room house for my family."

"Receiving the unconditional monthly cash transfer from GiveDirectly has been a game-changer for my family. With the recent $70, I was able to complete the construction of a two-bedroom house, providing a more secure and comfortable living space for my family. Previously, my five children were scattered, some even sleeping at their grandmother's place due to limited space. Now, with the new house, all my children are under one roof, allowing me to monitor and care for them the way I've always wished. I invested $220 in purchasing two beds with mattresses, a significant improvement from the small mattresses they used to sleep on the floor, impacting their health. This not only brought comfort but also joy to their lives. Allocating $11 for food was a relief, ensuring that my children no longer had to endure hunger throughout the day. Additionally, I prioritized education, using part of the money to pay school fees for all five children. For the first time, they settled into school, and took their exams, and I couldn't be prouder. In the past, our income from my charcoal-making hustle and my husband's casual work was unpredictable, but thanks to GiveDirectly, we've been able to make substantial improvements in our living conditions and the well-being of our family."

"In the past year, the cash transfer from GiveDirectly has been a lifeline for my family. With $50, I was able to clear school fees balances all of my five children in lower grades, ensuring they had the opportunity for a brighter future. Another $67 went into completing the construction of our 2-bedroom house, a significant improvement from the cramped living conditions we endured. My children used to sleep at their grandmother's place due to lack of space, but now we can all sleep under one roof. Allocating $80 for mattresses was a game-changer; no longer do we rely on uncomfortable mats for bedding, which had been taking a toll on our health. Investing $120 in new clothes has not only lifted our spirits but also boosted the self-esteem of my family. Previously, we wore torn and ragged clothes, but now we can proudly choose outfits, especially for the church. With the remaining funds, I secured a sack of 90kg of maize, guaranteeing that my children woouldn't go to bed hungry. Despite our livelihood challenges as charcoal burners, the cash transfer has allowed us to address crucial needs and build a foundation for a better life. In the coming year, I hope to continue making strides toward providing a more comfortable and fulfilling life for my family."

"I work as a watchman at a primary school and am also a farmer. I am married and blessed with one child. When I received my second transfer, I recognized it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and knew I needed to utilize it wisely for my benefit. Consequently, I allocated the funds strategically. I spent $92 on purchasing iron sheets to replace the grass-thatched roof of my current dwelling, aiming to build a more decent house. Additionally, I invested $40 in buying a sack of maize and $8 in cowpeas. The remaining $310 was set aside in savings. I am elated to share that within a short period, I achieved goals that seemed distant before. These changes have positively impacted my life, and I am immensely grateful for the opportunity that allowed me to transform my way of living."

"Upon receiving the second transfer, I incorporated my son's help in withdrawing a part of it, and together, we bought materials to construct a new kitchen. Adding to the first 8 iron sheets purchased earlier, I bought an additional 6 sheets for $63, roofing nails for $5, and window mesh for $3. My previous kitchen had collapsed due to weak poles destroyed by termites, so I am glad to initiate the construction of a new one. After spending $10 on transporting the materials home, I have paid a construction cost of $20 and have another $20 pending as per our agreement with the constructor. I also purchased foodstuffs, including 1 sack of maize for $40, beans for $5, a carton of milk for $6, and sugar worth $10, which I am still using since I live alone. Currently, I have $48 in cash and $25 saved in my Mpesa account, and I intend to use it to buy at least 3 goats once the currently high prices drop. This support has allowed me to address immediate needs and plan for a more sustainable future."

"We spent $415 building a one-room house for my growing son thanks to GiveDirectly transfers.Due to its complexion, I always felt guilty about sharing a roof with my son; I thought it was immoral. I also spent $35 on some kitchen utensils since I didn't have sufficient of them. I figured it was a good idea to buy two goats with my $80 because they breed quickly and do well in this area. Lastly, I use the remaining money to buy food for my children as compared to the past, when I worked irregular jobs that paid poorly, I'm glad that my kids now have enough food."