"Financial constraints are my greatest challenge as a single parent. I separated from my husband three years ago and since then I provide for my children single-handedly. I do casual jobs at tomato farms and it earns me an average of $10 a week which is hardly enough to cater to all the needs of my family. If I had a stable source of income my life would be easier."

"As I tended to my livestock out in the field, my phone buzzed, and a message popped up around 3 pm. Curious but not in a hurry, I finally glanced at the screen, and I saw $550 staring back at me. It was the unmistakable transfer from GiveDirectly. My heart raced, and a mix of disbelief and gratitude washed over me. A lump formed in my throat as I realized the significance of that amount was a lifeline of opportunity. I couldn't contain my joy; it radiated through me like a warm glow. The weight of financial burdens lifted, and I danced amidst the grazing animals, my heart lighter than it had been in years. That day marked not just the arrival of money but the arrival of hope, a turning point in my life that I would forever cherish."

"I aspire to bring about a positive transformation in the lives of both myself and my children. This journey involves the pivotal step of acquiring a new and decent house for my family. The present dwelling which is damaged, and its instability has me concerned that it may collapse anytime soon. Furthermore, I desire to delve into livestock rearing as a means of building wealth for my children’s education and needs. Right now, the casual jobs I do in charcoal burning can barely provide for all six of them; three of them have not yet joined school due to that fact. I hope that the cash transfers will play a crucial role in making this dream a reality for me."

"I am eager to broaden my sardine-selling business by incorporating additional products like vegetables and clothing. With the combined profits from the business and the assistance of cash transfers, I am confident that I can achieve this growth. Making an income from the business will allow me to support my husband in providing for the family. Working as a school security guard, the income he makes is sometimes insufficient to cover all the basic needs of our family. Another priority of mine is to construct a protective pillar around my house's walls to safeguard them from rain-induced deterioration. To accomplish this goal, I estimate a budget of around $200, for which I have been consistently saving $10 every month."

"My objective revolves around starting a vegetable-selling business. This aspiration has always burned within me, yet financial constraints have impeded its prior accomplishment. It is a longstanding goal of mine, and I am optimistic that the cash transfers will gradually help me gather the necessary funds to initiate this business. The profits generated from this venture will be critical in providing for my five children and supporting my husband, who currently sustains us through charcoal burning."

"My recommendation to GiveDirectly is to think about making their program last longer. Due to the region's poor demographic circumstances and the fact that most recipients are beginning from scratch, sustainability is problematic. A longer program could provide greater assistance to individuals trying to advance. Other than that, I endorse the program because I didn't encounter any shortcomings with it."

"If I can just secure enough funds, my heart is set on transforming my living space into an appealing place. The first order of business would be to indulge in the thorough art of plastering, breathing new life into the weathered outer walls. This would stand as a testament to my aspirations, a tangible embodiment of the beauty I've always yearned to surround myself with. The thought of residing in such a beautiful place fills me with an exceptional sense of anticipation and fulfillment."

"Receiving the cash transfer from GiveDirectly was a lifeline that transformed my world in ways I could only dream of. The weight of a year's worth of unpaid school fees for my children was finally lifted off my shoulders, and with it came a profound sense of peace and relief. No longer burdened by debt, I could focus on securing a brighter future. The prospect of owning a house, something I never thought possible, became a tangible reality as I purchased all the necessary materials and eagerly awaited the arrival of the contractor. The days of relying on my brother's kindness for shelter, after my own house had collapsed, were soon to be a distant memory. GiveDirectly didn't just provide me with financial assistance; they handed me the key to independence and a fresh start."

"For a while, I had been finding solace in my son's home, seeking shelter after my own house crumbled. When the cash transfers arrived from GiveDirectly, hope sparked within me. My ultimate goal was clear: I wanted a place to call my own. With that in mind, I carefully allocated the money. I purchased 22 pieces of sturdy iron sheets for $198, envisioning the walls and roof of my future abode. These sheets were like pieces of my dreams, patiently waiting as I gathered the other essential materials. In addition to laying the foundation for my home, I knew I had responsibilities to uphold. I used $20 to settle the lingering school fee balance for my youngest son. Education was the gateway to a better future, and even in my tough circumstances, I was determined to provide that for him. The most transformative decision, however, came when I used $250 to purchase a whole acre of land. This plot wasn't just soil; it was an opportunity. I envisioned crops growing, as a source of sustenance and income for my family. Using the remaining amount, I bought some food for my family. It had been a relentless battle to place a meal on the table, given my lack of a stable income. But now, as my family sat down to eat, I felt a renewed sense of dignity and strength. The cash transfers from GiveDirectly had transformed my aspirations into reality, a foundation upon which I could rebuild my life."

"Receiving the cash transfer from GiveDirectly was like a ray of hope breaking through the clouds of uncertainty in my life. With $500 of the received amount, I opted to breathe new life into my struggling boutique business. Previously, I could only afford to buy at most six pieces of clothes to stock my shop, barely enough to meet my customers' demands. However, this windfall changed everything. I invested the money wisely, purchasing a whopping 95 pieces of clothes that now adorn the racks of my boutique. The vibrant array of choices has drawn customers like never before, their smiles reflecting the newfound confidence I now feel. This expanded stock has not only transformed my business but my family's future as well. The reasonable profit I anticipate making will help me provide for my loved ones without the constant strain and worries that used to shadow our days. With the remaining $47, I ensured that my loved ones wouldn't go to bed hungry. I purchased essential food items, and every meal shared became a testament to the positive change that GiveDirectly had brought into our lives."