Get the Cash Beat the Virus

Cash transfer programs have been implemented in many low- and middle-income countries to alleviate poverty and provide social protection to impoverished households. Research indicates that these programs effectively alleviate poverty, promote economic independence, increase school attendance, empower women, and boost the utilization of health services. Poverty and economic stress are well-documented risk factors for HIV transmission, HIV-related morbidity, and mortality. Cash transfer programs have been found to be successful in reducing HIV prevalence among schoolgirls in Malawi and delaying sexual debut among caregivers of orphans and vulnerable children in Kenya.