Health Systems Strengthening

Jason Florio for CRS
Health Systems Strengthening
CRS capitalizes on relationships with faith-based health networks and facilities, which provide up to half of all health care in some countries – even more in remote areas where government services may not reach.
About the program
What We do
Many resource-poor areas lack the systems to deliver health interventions reliably, consistently, at reasonable cost, and at a scale that is required to serve those most in need. In partnership with the Catholic Church, civil society organizations, government institutions and community networks, CRS implements health systems strengthening programs in developing countries. We strive to strengthen equitable and comprehensive health systems and increase access to key services in the most rural, remote and marginalized communities. CRS capitalizes on relationships with faith-based health networks and facilities, which provide up to half of all health care in some countries – even more in remote areas where government services may not reach.
Our health system strengthening programming in developing countries provides technical assistance to this vast network of partners. In our holistic approach, we build capacity to plan, deliver, monitor and advocate for quality health services to the most remote and vulnerable populations. We build infrastructure and equip it with appropriate technologies. We train staff at the health facility and in the community to work together to address social determinants of health. We also help strengthen partnerships between community health structures and public, private and faith-based providers to ensure seamless integration of all providers into sustainable national systems.
Our Impact
How We Do It
- Networks: CRS helps our partner health facilities to strengthen networks so that they can work together, using data and their collective voices to influence policy and investments for expanded health service provision. We also support civil society networks to engage with health systems and help them operate more effectively.
- Community-centered and well integrated: Good health begins in the community. We help strengthen partnerships between community health structures and public, private and faith-based providers to ensure seamless integration of all providers into sustainable national systems.
- Faith-based relationship support: In many countries, faith-based health networks provide as much as half of all health care – even more in very rural areas where the government may not reach. A key part of CRS’ work centers on helping faith-based health institutions to build more influential and sustainable relationships with government, and helping governments work more efficiently and effectively with faith-based service providers.
Where We work
With abiding faith in God, who works through us and through our partners, there is no limit to what we can do in service to others. We share a tireless commitment to advocating for our marginalized sisters and brothers while uplifting the dignity of the human person.
Explore Our Projects

Encouraging Breastfeeding in Rwanda
Following advice from those around her, she was told to stop breastfeeding her twins, as she was convinced that continuing to breastfeed while pregnant could be detrimental to both her health and the health of her baby.
Read Story arrow_right_alt
Eliminating Malaria in Cambodia
Trained local workers help eliminate malaria in Cambodia.
Read Story arrow_right_alt
Benin Improves School Health
Hygiene clubs involve students and teachers in promoting and practicing good water, sanitation and health activities in Benin.
Read Story arrow_right_alt
Improving Early Childhood Nutrition in Rwanda
Early in the morning, Riberi Mukankusi, walks to Charlotte Mukajambo’s home to visit 2-year-old Efta.
Read Story arrow_right_alt
Improving Girls’ Nutrition in Timor-Leste
School programs offer nutritious food while girls learn to better manage their health and eating habits.
Read Story arrow_right_alt
Improving Mother and Child Nutrition in Rwanda
Edisa welcomed her newborn into the world under challenging circumstances. Born prematurely at eight months.
Read Story arrow_right_alt01/02

Save lives every month!
Join the CRS monthly giving program, Footsteps in Faith, and you can make a difference all year long! Bring lasting change to your sisters and brothers in need around the world.
STAY UPDATED
Program News & Articles
With a team of Communications staff around the world, we can provide real-time updates during emergencies and on a wide variety of current issues and events facing the developing world and the international community.