CARE Fund Supporting Community-Led Health Initiatives (Jamaica)

The CARE Fund 2026 supports community-led initiatives in Jamaica that improve health, prevention, and family-centred care. The programme funds practical projects addressing major health challenges, including non-communicable diseases, mental health, healthy ageing, adolescent health, and community support systems.

Eligible community organisations can apply for funding to deliver awareness, education, training, and local interventions that strengthen healthier communities.

What Is the CARE Fund 2026?

The CARE Fund 2026 is a community health funding programme designed to support local initiatives that improve well-being and prevent health challenges in Jamaica.

The fund focuses on community-based solutions that address health risks and social factors affecting individuals and families.

The programme encourages projects that promote:

• Prevention
• Health education
• Community support
• Family-centred care
• Long-term well-being

Main Objectives of the Fund

The CARE Fund aims to:

• Strengthen community health prevention efforts
• Improve access to health-related support
• Encourage healthier lifestyles
• Address social factors affecting health
• Support coordinated community interventions

The programme follows a life-course approach, recognising the importance of health support from childhood through older age.

Priority Areas Supported

The fund supports projects addressing key health and social challenges.

Social Media and Children

Projects may focus on:

• Healthy digital habits
• Online safety awareness
• Responsible technology use
• Child well-being

The goal is to support healthier relationships between children, families, and digital environments.

Healthy Ageing

Initiatives may support:

• Older persons’ well-being
• Active ageing
• Community care systems
• Healthy lifestyle promotion

Projects should help older adults maintain independence and quality of life.

Menopause and Andropause Community Support

Funding may support awareness and support systems related to:

• Menopause education
• Andropause awareness
• Age-related health changes
• Community-based support

The focus is on improving understanding and access to appropriate guidance.

Home Care Training for Older Persons and Disabled Individuals

Projects may provide:

• Caregiver training
• Home care education
• Disability support skills
• Family assistance systems

These activities strengthen community-based care.

Obesity Prevention and Healthy Living

The fund supports initiatives addressing obesity through:

• Nutrition education
• Physical activity promotion
• Lifestyle interventions
• Community wellness activities

The aim is to reduce risks linked to non-communicable diseases.

Responsible Parenting and Fertility

Supported activities may include:

• Parenting education
• Family planning awareness
• Fertility education
• Family support services

Projects should encourage informed and responsible decision-making.

Period Poverty and Adolescent Health

Initiatives may address:

• Menstrual health education
• Access to menstrual products
• Adolescent health awareness
• Youth support programmes

The goal is to improve dignity, health, and participation among young people.

Jamaica Moves and Community Integration

Projects may support:

• Physical activity programmes
• Community exercise initiatives
• Healthy lifestyle campaigns
• Wellness engagement

These activities encourage healthier daily habits.

Mental Health and Community Support

Funding may support:

• Mental health awareness
• Peer support systems
• Community counselling initiatives
• Emotional well-being programmes

The focus is on reducing barriers to mental health support.

Substance Abuse and Community Support

Projects may address:

• Prevention education
• Community awareness
• Support networks
• Recovery assistance

The aim is to strengthen community responses to substance-related challenges.

Who Is Eligible?

The CARE Fund is open to organisations working to improve community well-being in Jamaica.

Eligible applicants include:

• Community-Based Organizations (CBOs)
• Faith-Based Organizations (FBOs)
• Civil Society Groups

Applicants should demonstrate commitment to:

• Community development
• Health improvement
• Social support
• Local impact

Eligible Project Types

Projects should provide practical community-based solutions.

Examples include:

• Health education programmes
• Awareness campaigns
• Training initiatives
• Support groups
• Community outreach activities
• Prevention programmes

Projects should have clear benefits for individuals, families, or communities.

How to Apply

Step 1: Identify a Community Health Need

Applicants should define:

• The issue being addressed
• Target population
• Community challenges
• Expected outcomes

Step 2: Develop a Project Plan

Applications should include:

• Project goals
• Activities
• Implementation approach
• Expected impact

Step 3: Prepare Required Documents

Applicants must submit:

• Completed application form
• Project narrative
• Project objectives
• Work plan
• Budget
• Supporting documents

Step 4: Demonstrate Community Impact

Strong applications should explain:

• How the project improves health outcomes
• How communities will participate
• How results can continue after funding

Why This Fund Matters

The CARE Fund supports community-driven approaches to improving health across Jamaica.

The programme helps communities:

• Prevent health problems
• Strengthen family support systems
• Improve awareness and education
• Build local capacity

By focusing on prevention and practical solutions, the fund contributes to stronger and healthier communities.

Common Application Mistakes and Tips

Unclear Community Need

Projects should clearly explain the problem they address.

Tip: Use local evidence and community experiences to justify the project.

Weak Activity Planning

Applications need clear implementation steps.

Tip: Include realistic timelines and responsibilities.

Missing Budget Details

Budgets should match project activities.

Tip: Explain how each cost supports project goals.

Limited Sustainability Planning

Projects should consider long-term impact.

Tip: Describe how activities can continue after funding ends.

Lack of Community Involvement

Community participation is important.

Tip: Show how local people will contribute to project success.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the CARE Fund 2026?

The CARE Fund 2026 supports community-led health and well-being initiatives in Jamaica.

Who can apply?

Registered Community-Based Organizations, Faith-Based Organizations, and Civil Society Groups can apply.

What types of projects are funded?

The fund supports prevention, education, training, and community support projects related to health and well-being.

Does the fund support mental health projects?

Yes. Mental health awareness and community support initiatives are among the priority areas.

Are youth health projects eligible?

Yes. Projects addressing adolescent health, period poverty, and family support may be eligible.

Does the fund support older persons?

Yes. Healthy ageing and home care support for older persons are key focus areas.

What documents are required?

Applicants must submit an application form, project narrative, objectives, work plan, budget, and supporting documents.

Conclusion

The CARE Fund 2026 provides an opportunity for Jamaican community organisations to develop practical solutions that improve health and quality of life.

By supporting prevention, education, and community-based care, the programme strengthens family-centred approaches and helps build healthier, more resilient communities across Jamaica.