"Our first transfer from GiveDirectly brought about significant changes in our lives. Living near the center, we yearned to relocate deeper into the land to provide ample space for our livestock. To realize this dream, I purchased 10 iron sheets for $72, which would be crucial in constructing our new house. Meanwhile, my husband encountered a problem with his motorcycle, which served as a vital source of income for our family. It facilitated his taxi business, the transportation of water during drought seasons, and frequent visits to our distant farm. Recognizing its importance, we spent $45 to have it repaired, ensuring that our means of income remained intact. Furthermore, to ensure a sufficient food supply, I invested $65 in acquiring a substantial 100-kg bag of dry maize grains for my family of four. Previously, I relied on small-scale food businesses and grocery purchases while my husband diligently operated his motorcycle taxi, and after a breakage, we could not get any income. With the remaining $18, I bought other essential household goods, including toiletries, to enhance our daily lives."

"As soon as I received the first transfer, my priority was to replenish our food supplies, which had been dwindling. It was a moment of relief when I spent $65 on purchasing enough food to sustain my family of six for an entire month. Another matter that had been weighing on our minds was our motorcycle, which had been out of service for the past two months due to engine problems. This motorcycle played a crucial role in water collection and served as a means of transportation for my spouse's taxi business. Unfortunately, we couldn't afford the repairs at the time due to financial constraints. However, thanks to the support from GiveDirectly, we were able to fix it for $60, and we're now overjoyed that it's up and running again. In addition to these expenses, I used $40 to clear my son's tuition arrears from the previous term, ensuring his education continued without interruption. To enhance the security around our home, I invested $25 in purchasing wire mesh to complete a section of the compound fence that I had previously left unfinished. Lastly, I spent $3 on labor support during the fencing project and the remaining $7 on various household goods, including sugar, toiletries, and other essential items."

"I was extremely alated when I received my first transfers from Give Directly since I have been burdened by a motorbike debt of $ 50, and I understood the importance of resolving this financial obligation. With the support of the unconditional transfers, I was able to clear the debt, alleviating the stress and burden associated with it. By taking this responsible step, I paved the way for a fresh start, free from the weight of debt and its financial implications. Recognizing the significance of shelter, I decided to allocate a portion of the funds towards purchasing iron sheets. With $42, I was able to acquire the necessary materials to improve my housing situation since it was not conducive anymore. Furthermore, I prioritized the well-being and nourishment of my family. With $66, I purchased a sack of maize, ensuring a steady supply of food. This guaranteed that my family's nutritional needs would be met, reducing the uncertainty and stress associated with food insecurity" (Occupation: Motorcycle or bicycle taxi)

"I work as a motorcycle taxi driver, and I am currently single. The support I received from GiveDirectly has made a significant difference in my life. It has enabled me to achieve things that I once thought were impossible. When I received the transfer, I decided to invest in goat rearing. With $54, I was able to fence my land, providing a grazing area for the goats. I then used $60 to purchase two goats. Additionally, I bought a sack of maize for $30. I am grateful that I now have an alternative source of income to rely on, which brings me a sense of relief and contentment." (Occupation: Motorcycle or bicycle taxi)

"I have a desire to construct a new house, as my current one is in poor condition. The tin roof has corroded over time, resulting in water leakage during rainy days. Additionally, the house is made of mud, making it less stable and more prone to damage. I aim to build a new two-room house with a more durable structure, that is made of bricks instead of mud. However, financial constraints have made it difficult to pursue this goal, but if I can find a breakthrough or opportunity, I will build the house. I am determined to invest the cash transfers I receive into building the house. Besides, having a tangible outcome like a new house would provide a clear and meaningful purpose for the funds I receive." (Occupation: Motorcycle or bicycle taxi)

"Upon receiving my transfer, I had just given birth to my secondborn and had to delegate a lot to my husband. We first put a dent in the loan we had taken with my spouse for our motorcycle, paying off $71 of it. It's been a gradual process, but we are thrilled to be nearing the end of this financial burden. The motorcycle has been providing income and easing the task of fetching water, particularly during my pregnancy and after giving birth, since walking to the river became challenging. I allocated $135 towards purchasing essential foodstuff for my family of four, including maize, rice, beans, and fruits. My husband's work as a gobbler in the nearby market has been instrumental in sustaining our household. We shared a single bed with our firstborn child in the past, but thanks to a fortunate purchase, we now have an additional bed. However, the absence of a mattress meant that my husband had to endure uncomfortable nights using makeshift cartons. This changed when we invested $38 from the transfer to buy a brand new mattress. Now, my husband can enjoy a restful sleep after long and tiresome days. I set aside $10 to improve my farming activities. Additionally, I spent $6 to purchase household goods, including toiletries, to enhance our daily well-being."

"Everyone in the community is amazing, particularly in light of the work that GiveDirectly accomplishes. Never before have there been such openness and transparency. We would typically be offered assistance as long as just a few persons were considered. The cherry on top was sending money to our Mpesa accounts instantly and without any spending restrictions as promised. Our hamlet has seen a significant transformation as a result of people having more financial freedom. I like the organization and have no complaints about it." (Occupation: Motorcycle or bicycle taxi)

"I reside with my extended family, consisting of a total of eight members, including my wife, son, daughter-in-law, and four grandchildren. Both my son and I share the responsibility of fulfilling the needs of our large family. While my son earns a living as a motorcycle taxi driver, I sustain myself as a peasant farmer, heavily relying on agricultural produce to support us. In April, I received my transfers at a time when the weather conditions had improved, and we had begun to receive some rainfall. Out of the $34 April transfers, I allocated $25 to prepare my one-acre plot for planting. The preparation process involved clearing the land of bushes, digging and softening the soil, and demarcating the area for efficient planting. Once the land was ready, I utilized the remaining funds to purchase herbicides and fertilizers, aiming to enhance the growth of my maize and bean crops. With the plentiful rainfall we have been receiving, unlike the limited precipitation of the past six years, I am confident that our crops will thrive. This optimistic outlook brings relief to our financial burdens, as it alleviates the difficulties we face in affording expensive food items from the stores."

"I recently enrolled for a driving course after my father managed to pay for my tuition fee. I was at the verge of dropping out since I had not paid for the necessary documents. I am glad that the most recent transfer came in handy as it enabled me to pay for my Interim driving license, paid for my National Traffic Safety Administration examination fee and also paid of my Driving License after passing the examination. I am now at peace and happy knowing that I have a valid driving license that I did not have before despite being a motorcycle rider and I can now go on with my daily activities without worrying of being caught by the authorities."

"I was bathing my newborn on that particular evening when I heard my phone ringing so loudly. I was nervous and even stopped a little bit from the task I was handling and checked who had sent the message during that hour. I felt extremely happy after reading that it was an Mpesa message from GiveDirectly. Without wasting time, I shared the news with my spouse and discussed how we would start one of our projects, which was to build a decent house." (Occupation: Motorcycle or bicycle taxi)