"With GiveDirectly transfer, I have been able to join a savings group and also expand my livestock selling business. Currently, my aim for the next one year is to build a permanent three-room house. With the current rains experienced in our region, our roads have been rendered impassable. Due to this, I have not been able to start purchasing some building materials as I had planned to though I believe that I'll be starting soon. My hope is to complete the house before the year 2024 ends and I have faith that this is possible since I already have some savings that I am planning to kick start the project. without GiveDirectly's support, I believe that I would still achieve this goal using the proceeds from my business though it will take me a longer duration before accomplishing it."

"We live in a two room house and we have three boys and a girl. Currently, they all sleep in one of the rooms and I know that once the boys hit 15 years, they will need their own separate room which will not be under the same roof as ours as parents. Because of this, I am planning to build a three-room house for my family. Having achieved this, we will leave our current house for our sons while we move into the new house. With this, everyone will be guaranteed of privacy that we all need all the time. Even though I have not started the construction process yet, I am grateful to GiveDirectly since their transfer will enable me to achieve something that I cannot achieve on my own."

"I intend to become a member of a 'Chama' savings group established by my relatives at our home. This will enable me to accumulate sufficient funds to enroll in university next year and continue pursuing my desired career. Additionally, I am keen on acquiring a goat, which I view as a prospective investment for generating future income. I am appreciative of the financial assistance I have received, which has facilitated the realization of my educational aspirations."

"My aspiration for the upcoming year is to start a goat-rearing business. Challenges in life and the absence of a steady source of income had previously impeded my ability to embark on this venture. Nevertheless, I am delighted that, with the recent transfers I've received, I've managed to accumulate a total of fourteen goats—enough to successfully launch this project. The establishment of this business holds significant importance for me, providing a tangible set of assets even after the project concludes. I extend my gratitude to you for making this endeavor possible."

"My objective for the upcoming year is to ensure that my son enrolls in Junior Secondary School. I firmly believe that investing in education is pivotal for a brighter future. To achieve this goal, I have consistently set aside savings each month in a dedicated savings club. Fortunately, I am scheduled to receive the total accumulated amount this January, perfectly timed for the commencement of the new school term. With these savings and additional transfers, I will be able to procure the necessary items such as uniforms, books, and other essentials for my son. I express gratitude towards this organization, as it has profoundly assisted my family in realizing this important educational milestone."

"When I received the first transfer, the first thing I did was buy seven iron sheets to fix our rundown house. Spending $67 on those sheets might seem small, but it meant a lot to us. It was about satisfaction and a secure roof over our heads. After that, I bought two mattresses. My three children and I had been sleeping on the hard floor for too long, and it took a toll on us. I spending $100 on the mattresses. The relief of finally having a good night's sleep was priceless. With another $100, I managed to clear some food bills and other expenses we had borrowed. I also saw it fit to spend $60 on a sack of maize to keep us fed and $80 on a second-hand bicycle. This bike was our ticket to easier water access during the dry season because the water points seemed too far away. As for the remaining amount, I saved it, knowing it would be our safety net in case of emergencies."

"Upon receiving the cash transfer from GiveDirectly, I knew exactly how I wanted to use it to improve our lives. First, I focused on our home. With the old roof making us worry, I bought 30 iron sheets to renovate it and extend another room. Now, we have a safe and secure place to live, and our kids have their own space, a room they can call their own. Seeing their happiness is worth more than any amount of money. We finally have our privacy and comfort restored, a feeling I can't describe. As a casual laborer burning and selling charcoal for a living, the thought of having enough food without the daily struggle lifted a weight off my shoulders. I purchased two sacks of maize to ensure there was plenty to eat, allowing me to take a break from the exhausting work. Additionally, I bought a bed for my children, giving them a proper place to sleep instead of the hard floor. Their smiles as they lay down in their new bed made every penny spent worth it. It feels like we're stepping into a new chapter, one where our basic needs are met, and we can focus on building a better future."

"When the cash transfer arrived, it was like a lifeline for my family. First things first, with $173, I rushed to get 15 iron sheets to fix the leaky roof that used to keep us up at night. Seeing those sheets covering our home, my heart feels lighter, and my family's smiles are brighter. No more worrying about the rain pouring in; we can finally relax and sleep peacefully. Another $102 went into buying two mattresses. One for me and one for my children. It's incredible how something as simple as a good night's sleep changed everything. We used to wake up achy and tired from sleeping on torn mats, but now, we wake up refreshed and ready for the day. The comfort these mattresses bring is priceless, bringing us closer and making our home feel more comfortable. With $52, I bought a sack of maize, ensuring there's always enough food at home, easing the burden on my husband who works as a casual laborer. As of now, we're living with a newfound sense of fulfillment. Thereafter, I used $75 to buy a table and five chairs; no more logs for our guests to sit on! And finally, using $50, I settled the school fee balances for my kids and got them some clothes for $50. It feels amazing to see them go to school without worry and with clothes that fit them well."

"Life before the cash transfer was a constant struggle. My husband and I worked tirelessly at casual jobs, barely making ends meet. It was tough, especially with unpaid school fees for our children and cramped living conditions that left us restless. But when the transfer came, everything changed. With the fees paid off, our children could attend school without worry, and that brought us immense relief. We even managed to build a second room, providing our kids with the privacy they deserve. Seeing their smiles in their own space filled our hearts with joy. Finally, we could sleep better, knowing our family was more secure and comfortable than ever before."

"It was a sunny afternoon, and I was busy planting in the garden when my phone buzzed. Being unable to read, I didn't pay it much mind. Later, when I returned home, a family member shared the news of receiving their cash transfer from GiveDirectly. My heart raced with anticipation, so I asked my son to check for me. The moment he confirmed the money was in my account, a rush of happiness washed over me. Finally, there was hope for a better tomorrow! My thoughts turned to our humble shelter; the possibility of change filled me with excitement."