Charlie’s Heart Foundation Grant Program

Charlie’s Heart Foundation is a North Carolina-based private foundation committed to improving mental health outcomes among underserved communities. With a deep focus on supporting families, particularly parents and caregivers, the foundation believes that promoting the emotional and psychological well-being of adults fosters healthier children and, ultimately, more resilient communities. Their Annual Grant Program is specifically designed to assist small nonprofits delivering holistic mental health services to uninsured and underinsured individuals and families. The foundation's values emphasize community-centered innovation, equity, and sustainability in mental health care delivery. The foundation’s grants prioritize innovative, holistic programs that align with their mission of enhancing family mental well-being. While the core focus is on mental health services, Charlie’s Heart Foundation encourages proposals that integrate systemic impact, involve community members in program design and evaluation, and demonstrate measurable results. Preferred programs should serve under-resourced populations and exhibit a commitment to sustained impact beyond the grant period. The foundation is especially interested in organizations with operational budgets under $3 million, that are unaffiliated with larger institutions, and headquartered within North Carolina. Eligible organizations must be registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits and headquartered in North Carolina. While the primary focus is on programs within the state, consideration is given to humanitarian projects outside the continental U.S. provided that the grantee organization is based in North Carolina. Charlie’s Heart Foundation does not fund individuals, churches, private foundations, affiliate organizations, government units, political activities, or private schools. While program expenses are the primary funding target, related operating expenses may be included if they directly support the implementation and staffing of the funded program. The application process is structured into three stages: submission of a Letter of Interest (LOI), an invitation to complete the full Grant Application, and a final Telephone Inquiry. The LOI offers a preliminary overview and must be submitted through the foundation’s online portal by May 1, 2026. Upon review, qualifying applicants will receive instructions to access and submit the full Grant Application by June 30, 2026. The foundation may conduct interviews at the applicant’s office or project site to better evaluate alignment. After the application is deemed complete, applicants will participate in a brief phone inquiry as part of the final evaluation process. Grants awarded through the program typically range from $5,000 to $15,000 for first-time recipients, with the possibility of awards up to $30,000 for returning grantees. Grant decisions will be communicated by September 30, 2026. Award recipients are required to participate in a follow-up call and submit an impact report detailing the use of funds and outcomes achieved. All applications must be submitted through Charlie’s Heart Foundation’s online portal, and the foundation retains sole discretion in funding decisions, including final eligibility and award amounts. The Annual Grant Program recurs each year, with a consistent structure and deadlines. The foundation emphasizes relationship-building through local partnerships and encourages ongoing communication with potential grantees. For questions or partnership inquiries, applicants may contact Charlie’s Heart Foundation at info@charliesheartfoundation.org or via mail at 301 East John Street, #2489, Matthews, NC 28105. This recurring funding opportunity supports sustained engagement with community-based organizations addressing the mental health needs of families across North Carolina.

Programs should involve target populations in design, demonstrate clear outcomes, and serve under-resourced families.