Struggles to Hope

Cash transfers transforming lives beyond financial support.

Bounhome Phiakeo and Songkan Soulivongkham
A young boy smiles into the camera after finishing his daily walk practice.
UNICEF Laos/2024/BPhiakeo
23 December 2024

In Xiengkhouang Province, there lives a family whose spirit is as strong as the land that they tend to. Seven in number, the Yang family rely on farming for their livelihood, spending their days cultivating vegetables and helping one another when needed.

Yet, their greatest strength lies in their unwavering love for their youngest son, Tumua Yang, who has battled with a physical disability since birth. "A cough, left untreated, stole his ability to walk," his father, Mr. Chongcher Yang grieves softly.

Thanks to support of his family, the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare and the Rehabilitation Center, Tumua can walk today. With the steady support of a handrail and his newfound independence with his wheelchair, his progress is a testament of determination and positive impact of the Disability Grant Plus project.

A UNICEF staff talks with a child that is practicing walking with his father.
UNICEF Laos/2024/SSoulivongkham
A father and son smile at eat other while practicing walking.
UNICEF Laos/2024/BPhiakeo

The family receives a monthly cash transfer of 400,000 Kip – a modest amount, according to Mr. Yang. "It's not a fortune," he states, "but it means nourishing food for Tumua, new clothes, and essential medicine to keep him healthy."

More than just financial support, the program has improved the family’s living conditions and inspired them to dream of a better future. They are now saving for Tumua's education, hoping for new opportunities and growth for their child.

Grateful and hopeful, Mr. Yang reflects, “Thank you for improving our lives. May this project continue to inspire hope for families like ours.”

Tumua’s story is not just one of overcoming hardship – it’s a powerful reminder of how support thanks to the Disability Grant Plus project can bring transformative change, helping families dream beyond their current circumstances. 

A father describes about the cash transfer programme that helped change the life of his son.
UNICEF Laos/2024/BPhiakeo