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The Caribbean is known for its amazing natural beauty, resilience, and culture – all qualities that continue to inspire everything we do. But the region also faces challenges - from hurricanes and floods to social and economic struggles.
As a small business inspired by the Caribbean and as part of the diaspora, we wanted to create a resource to highlight meaningful ways to support the Caribbean – including through donations, volunteering, or sharing community projects.
Whether you have family ties to the islands, a love of the culture, or simply want to make a positive impact, here are some Caribbean charities, UK organisations and other initiatives to explore and to consider supporting to make a difference.
Table of Content
Direct Diplomatic & Government Channels
When you are looking for ways to support the Caribbean, you can contact official government representatives of the Caribbean in the UK.
Caribbean High Commissions in London
These are the official diplomatic representatives for each independent Caribbean nation.
In times of a national crisis The High Commission of the affected country often sets up an official disaster relief fund or liaises with the UK diaspora to coordinate aid. Check their official websites or social media for specific appeals and instructions on how to donate.
Disaster Relief & Recovery Organisations
When hurricanes and storms hit, quick action can save lives. These organisations focus on hurricane relief in the Caribbean and long-term recovery:
Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA)
A regional intergovernmental agency for disaster management within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).Its main role is the coordination of emergency response and relief efforts to its participating states that require assistance.
cdema.org
British Red Cross – Caribbean Appeals
Provides emergency assistance and recovery support for Caribbean islands affected by natural disasters.
redcross.org.uk
GlobalGiving (Caribbean Relief Fund)
Creates a bridge between donors and grassroots charitable projects, connecting donors directly with trusted, community-led projects across the region.
globalgiving.org
UNICEF Eastern Caribbean
Focuses on protecting children and families affected by emergencies and natural disasters.
unicef.org/easterncaribbean
Environment & Climate Action
Although the region contributes minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions, its geography, socio-economic structure, and ecological systems make it highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. These organisations work to protect natural ecosystems and create sustainable futures:
The Caribbean Climate-Smart Accelerator
Encourages innovation and climate-resilient development by fast-tracking major investments and projects to transform the region into a climate-resilient, low-carbon economy. It focuses on rapidly scaling up renewable energy, protecting ecosystems, and creating sustainable economic growth.
caribbeanaccelerator.org
The Nature Conservancy – Caribbean Division
Works to protect the Caribbean region's marine and coastal ecosystems, mainly through science-driven coral restoration and the development of natural, climate-resilient infrastructure. Its goal is to safeguard nature while ensuring the long-term well-being and security of Caribbean communities.
nature.org/caribbean
Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre (CCCCC)
The official CARICOM agency responsible for coordinating the region's climate change response. It works as the central hub for technical expertise and project execution to build climate resilience for member states.
caribbeanclimate.bz
Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC)
An independent non-profit with the mission of protecting the Caribbean environment through conservation tools including science, education, advocacy and stewardship.
epicislands.org
Education & Community Development
Empowering communities through education and local initiatives is key to a sustainable Caribbean. Consider supporting:
Mustard Seed Communities
Provides care and support for vulnerable children and families in several Caribbean countries.
mustardseed.com
UK-Based & Diaspora Organisations
If you’re in the UK and want to support the Caribbean community, here are some organisations to consider supporting:
Windrush Foundation
Dedicated to preserving and promoting the history and significant contributions of the Windrush Generation, and African and Caribbean people to British life through heritage projects and education.
windrushfoundation.com
Commonwealth Foundation
Funds and supports civil society projects across Commonwealth countries, including many in the Caribbean.
commonwealthfoundation.com
Friends of the Caribbean
A UK-based charity based in Milton Keynes that supports the Caribbean diaspora in the UK and contributes to projects in the Caribbean, including disaster relief and community projects.
friendsofthecaribbean.co.uk
Other Ways to Support the Caribbean
Not every act of support has to involve financial donations. You can help in many other ways:
Share verified Caribbean charity fundraisers with friends, family and on social media.
Volunteer with UK-based Caribbean organisations or community groups.
Shop from Caribbean-owned small businesses and independent brands where you can - especially when travelling to the Caribbean. Check out Caribbean Green Book to learn more about this.
Learn about the region’s culture, history, and climate challenges - and share what you learn with friends and family.
Important Considerations Before Donating
Check for Charity Registration
You can check if a charity is registered with the Charity Commission for England and Wales to verify its legitimacy and financial transparency. You can search for the charity number on their website.
Specific or General Funds
When a disaster hits, try to donate to an appeal specifically for that event, or to an organisation with a strong presence in the affected area.
Monetary or Goods Donations
While you may want to send physical goods, cash donations can be more efficient. Local organisations usually know exactly what is needed (often specific materials or supplies) and can purchase them locally, which stimulates the local economy and can avoid expensive shipping and customs delays.
Tax Relief (Gift Aid)
If you are a UK taxpayer, remember to tick the Gift Aid box when donating to registered UK charities. This allows the charity to claim an extra 25p for every £1 you donate from the government, at no extra cost to you.
Every act of kindness makes a difference. Whether you donate, volunteer, or simply raise awareness, you’re helping to support the Caribbean community in the UK and in the Caribbean.
If you know of a trusted charity or community project that should be added to this list, please let us know by emailing hello@tiharasmith.com.
Note:
This guide is provided for informational purposes only. We’ve put this list together through our own online research to highlight some of the organisations supporting the Caribbean. These listings are shared to help you explore options rather than as official recommendations. Please take a moment to do your own research before donating, to make sure your contribution aligns with your values and supports the needs of the Caribbean region.
Thumbnail image by Robin Canfield on Unsplash