"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."

"My objective is to guarantee the successful education of my five children by consistently paying their fees on time. Unfortunately, I lack a steady source of income that could help with this educational responsibility. The monthly transfers have proven instrumental in maintaining their uninterrupted schooling. Despite grappling with financial challenges, witnessing my children achieve their educational aspirations remains my utmost priority."

"As a single parent with three school-going children and no external support, the majority of the transfers will be allocated to cover their educational expenses. Additionally, I am contemplating initiating a poultry project as my current endeavor doesn't yield substantial income. The poultry project will be a reliable source of income through the sale of poultry and generate some money. I am confident that this project will not only contribute to our financial stability but also ensure the continuity of my children's education."

"Upon receiving my second transfer of $450 from GiveDirectly, my primary focus was procuring food, a crucial investment given the consistent challenge of sustaining ourselves. We heavily rely on casual jobs and our small-scale farming efforts, yet the past three years have seen our harvests thwarted by unpredictable rainfall patterns, resulting in continual losses. The struggle to provide for our four children and ourselves persists. Last year, blessed with better rains, I invested $150 in planting maize once more. Additionally, I allocated $200 to purchase sheep, preferring their manageable nature as they refrain from causing disturbances in other people's farms. I intend to breed them, sell their offspring, and thereby sustain our family. To diversify our turnover, I introduced chickens into our homestead by purchasing four for $14. I hold hope that through the sale of eggs and chicken, a steady income can be generated to support our daily needs. Another significant change came in the form of a mattress, acquired for $40. Previously, I endured discomfort sleeping on an old, inadequate one supported by worn-out bags. This new investment has alleviated the strain on my back and waist, ensuring a more restful night's sleep. Despite the challenges, these investments represent hope for a better future, enabling us to move forward with renewed determination and resilience."

"In the upcoming year and beyond, my focus is on elevating my business endeavors to alleviate the burdens on my husband and create a more comfortable life for our four kids. With life already posing challenges, my goal is to generate increased profits through my businesses, aiming to ease the strain of pressing needs on my husband.My determination is rooted in providing a better life for my children, ensuring they have the comfort and resources needed to pursue their dreams. Education holds a key role in this vision, and my aim is to secure a smooth educational journey for them, preventing any interruptions that may hinder their aspirations. Through dedicated efforts in my business, I hope to pave the way for a brighter and more stable future for my family."

"GiveDirectly has been a transformative force in my life, providing the means for significant positive changes. With their support, I upgraded from sleeping on a mat to enjoying the comfort of a mattress. Investing wisely, I purchased goats and chickens, securing a promising future for myself. Now, my children experience the joy of sleeping in a well-furnished house, a testament to the impactful assistance from GiveDirectly.However, challenges persist, notably with elephants damaging our crops. I wish for additional financial assistance to further invest in farming, enabling us to protect our livelihood from these challenges."

"GiveDirectly is making a tremendous impact, and I'm incredibly thankful for their support. I sincerely hope they persist with their cash programs because they empower individuals to address their unique and diverse needs effectively."

"With the recent $200 from GiveDirectly, I strategically allocated the funds to address immediate needs and invest in the future. Recognizing the urgency of the times, I secured two sacks of maize, ensuring a reliable source of food for my family during these challenging days. Education remained a priority as well I directed a portion towards supporting my child in secondary school, investing in their future. The rest of the funds were wisely invested in our small ventures I an expansion of my vegetable business and a boost for my wife's modest hotel. This thoughtful allocation aimed not just at surviving the present but at laying the foundation for stability and growth, a resilient response to the uncertainties that life presents."

"I am a mother of four and currently only engaging in farming as my source of income. My husband has no job and has moved to the city yesterday to try find a job. I used to have a grocery stall but I closed it due to the animals as they would devour my stock and I would end up making nothing. I want to find an alternative way of ensuring my family is provided for. I am saving to facilitate the purchase of animals from which I hope to gain an income from by ensuring they procreate so they can multiply in number."

"I run a small stall selling homemade soap, sardines, tomatoes and vegetables. I depend on this business to take of my family as I am the sole provider for my home. My business does not make enough yet to feed and school my children. I depend on my transfers for school fees. My aim is to ensure all my children get an education to give then a chance to compete in the world. I also plan to expand on the business that is taking care f my family's needs which will help increase what I make from the business."