Needy couples got cash and a spending plan. Results were good -- and bad

Since the early 2000s, countries have tried to lift people out of poverty with a simple program — giving them cash.

The idea is that a lump sum will help the poorest of the poor buy food, pay for school fees or build a business — like raising livestock — to make more money.

Study after study has shown these cash transfers are a reliable way to help families in extreme poverty build a source of income and support their own basic needs.