This programme has rapidly developed and currently benefits more than 11 million poor households (estimated to include 47 million people), providing them with a social security network by means of direct transfers. Families fulfilling the conditions receive family income support and must observe the conditions laid down relating to human development in return. For example, they undertake to send their children to school and undergo various types of vaccinations. The programme has contributed considerably to the improvement in the Brazilian low income population’s life conditions and the reduction in the rate of poverty and inequalities. It is expected that coverage will be extended to cover 12.4 million families by the end of 2009.