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Economic Strengthening Programs for HIV/AIDS Affected Communities: Evidence of Impact and Good Practice Guidelines

The report discusses the evidence of impact that economic strengthening programs have on communities affected by HIV/AIDS, and develops good practice guidelines and recommendations for health programmers. It begins with a discussion on why economic strengthening programs are needed for HIV/AIDS-affected communities as they cope with the long-wave shock of the epidemic, and illustrates how economic support can be tailored for different vulnerable groups most affected by HIV/AIDS.The paper then describes the main functions of economic strengthening programs, from social assistance or safety-net programs (cash or food transfers), to asset-growth and protection services (savings and insurance) and income growth initiatives through market linkages and vocational training. This discussion is followed by a short summary of the evidence of impact that economic strengthening programs have on the welfare of targeted individuals or households and their ability to mitigate risk among vulnerable groups. It also shares key gaps in the evidence base according to program type and offers recommendations for donors and practitioners.