The Charlotte Area Fund ( CAF ) is a private non-profit corporation and Mecklenburg Countys designated community action agency. The purpose of the agency is to combat poverty by assisting low-income individuals and families with becoming self-sufficient. Since 1963, CAF has initiated and provided a variety of programs and services to serve the poor in Mecklenburg County. Promise Of Community Action Community action changes peoples lives, embodies the spirit of hope, improves communities and makes America a better place to live. We care about the entire community and we are dedicated to helping people help themselves and each other. CAF receives grant funds from the state of North Carolina to serve the economically disadvantaged in Mecklenburg County. We also receive a small amount of donations to assist in providing services that may not be provided otherwise due to grant restrictions.