Supporting those impacted by conflict, poverty, and discrimination. Strength in unity.

Who we are

The Community Encouragement Foundation (CEF) is a grassroots organization based in Sri Lanka, working since 2003 to empower marginalized women and vulnerable communities. We believe in justice, dignity, and equal opportunity for all. Our work focuses on advocacy, capacity building, healthcare access, and economic empowerment creating a safe and inclusive environment where every individual has the power to thrive.

our mission

The Community Encouragement Foundation in Sri Lanka aims to women empowerment by promoting human rights, creating entrepreneurial opportunities, and advocating dignity for marginalized women to improve their quality of life.
Our Mission

Our Story of Empowerment

Since our founding in 2003, The Community Encouragement Foundation (CEF) has stood beside Sri Lanka’s most vulnerable communities—war-affected families, marginalized women, and individuals facing social exclusion.

What began as a compassionate response to the needs of women displaced by conflict has grown into a powerful movement for justice, inclusion, and dignity.

Today, our work spans advocacy, education, health support, and economic empowerment, guided by the belief that every person deserves the opportunity to live a life free from discrimination and fear.

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What we do

Our Primary Focus Groups

We work closely with communities who need support the most.

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Single Mothers
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Gender-Based Violence (GBV)
3. period poverty awareess & pack donation ii
Tackling Period Poverty
4. women’s political participation ii
Promoting women’s political participation
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FSW in Sri Lanka
Vedda People
Ethnic Groups in Sri Lanka
Ethnic Groups
Indigenous People in Sri Lanka
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Ceylon Kaffir Community
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Telugu People in Sri Lanka
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LGBTQ+ Community in Sri Lanka

Raise Her Voice Against Violence

With the support of FON-CREA, this project spans across all 16 DS divisions in the Puttalam district, aiming to reduce violence based on gender and sexuality. Through awareness, safe spaces, and creative expression, it advocates for the rights of women in sex work.

What we do

We provide training and mentorship to marginalized women, helping them gain confidence, leadership skills, and access to sustainable livelihoods.

We ensure access to essential healthcare mental, sexual, and reproductive and offer safe, stigma-free spaces for counseling and support.

Through awareness campaigns, survivor support, and policy advocacy, we work to end GBV and promote safety and dignity for all women.

We champion the rights of marginalized women, especially sex workers, by raising awareness and influencing policy for greater inclusion and protection.

We support income-generating opportunities through vocational training, cooperatives, and microfinance tailored to local markets.

We collaborate with community leaders and organizations to build supportive networks and reduce stigma against vulnerable women.

We empower girls through education programs, scholarships, and resources to help them escape poverty and build a better future.

Our Donors & Partners

We are grateful for the generous support and collaboration of our donors and partner organizations who help us carry out our mission of empowering marginalized communities across Sri Lanka.

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Contact Us

We’d love to hear from you! Whether you have questions, need support, or want to collaborate, feel free to reach out.