Our History
Karuna Action has always been about people, relationships, and compassion in action.
Kar-ru-nah [kah r-u nuh] is a Sanskrit word for Compassion
A feeling of deep sympathy and sorrow for another who is strcken by misfortune, accompanied by a strong desire to alleviate the suffering.
Beginnings as Kingscare
Our story began in 1988, when a small group of Christians in Hampshire founded a charity called Kingscare. Their vision was simple but powerful: to show God’s love in practical ways, responding to both local and international needs with kindness and action.
In its early years, Kingscare was a lifeline for many vulnerable people in the UK and overseas, working through trusted connections to deliver food, clothing, medical care, and friendship. The work was rooted in faith and carried out with a deep conviction that every person has dignity and worth.
Becoming Karuna Action
As time went on, the charity’s international work grew significantly, with projects taking root in Africa, Asia, and other parts of the world. By partnering with local leaders and churches, Kingscare was able to support sustainable, long-term solutions to poverty rather than short-term fixes.
In 2011, to reflect this growing international focus, the charity changed its name to Karuna Action. The word Karunameans “compassion in action,” which beautifully captured the heart of the charity – moving beyond words and intentions to make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
Under the new name, Karuna Action expanded its network of grassroots partnerships, enabling communities to access clean water, education, healthcare, housing, and opportunities for sustainable livelihoods. Unlike many large aid agencies, Karuna Action chose to remain small and relational, ensuring that funds went directly to projects and that each initiative was built on trust and long-term commitment.
Growing Impact
Over the decades, Karuna Action has supported hundreds of projects. These have ranged from building schools in rural villages, to funding medical clinics, to empowering families with microloans so they can start small businesses and break cycles of poverty.
Our distinctive approach has always been to walk alongside rather than impose solutions. We believe the most lasting change happens when communities are empowered to shape their own future, with encouragement and support from trusted partners.
Karuna Coffee House
In 2021, Karuna Action entered a new chapter with the opening of the Karuna Coffee House in Aldershot, Hampshire. The vision was to create a welcoming space for the local community – a place where people could meet, connect, and feel at home – while also raising awareness and funds for our overseas projects.
Karuna Coffee House is more than just a café. It is a hub for building relationships, a visible presence for the charity in the heart of the town, and a practical reminder that compassion begins close to home as well as across the world. Every coffee served and every conversation shared contributes to our wider mission of bringing hope and dignity where it is most needed.
Our Journey Continues
Over the decades, Karuna Action has supported hundreds of projects. These have ranged from building schools in rural villages, to funding medical clinics, to empowering families with microloans so they can start small businesses and break cycles of poverty.
Our distinctive approach has always been to walk alongside rather than impose solutions. We believe the most lasting change happens when communities are empowered to shape their own future, with encouragement and support from trusted partners.
