Culture and Care Networks: Promoting Mental Health in Cidade de Deus

The Culture and Care Networks: Promoting Mental Health in Cidade de Deus project is mapping and documenting cultural organisations and initiatives in Cidade de Deus, a neighbourhood in Rio de Janeiro, that use art, culture, and social mobilisation to promote mental well-being. The research is inspired by the Manguinhos: Cultural Strategy as a Tool for Social Inclusion and Mental Health project and follows a participatory action research approach.

This initiative is based on the belief that culture is a powerful tool for care, social inclusion, and the protection of rights. By working closely with the local community, the project aims to develop resources that strengthen networks of knowledge and social action. Collaboration with researchers, cultural producers, and community organisations is key to ensuring that the findings are both relevant and effectively shared.

In addition to gathering in-depth information about life in Cidade de Deus, the project seeks to better understand how sociocultural experiences contribute to well-being and social inclusion. By highlighting local initiatives, creating a portfolio for cultural producers, and improving community access to cultural activities, the project aims to foster new partnerships and opportunities for engagement, both locally and internationally.

The research is a collaboration between People’s Palace Projects and the Construindo Juntos Research Collective, with support from Fundação Getúlio Vargas and Tufts University. It is funded by the Integrated Health Plan for Favelas in Rio de Janeiro, an initiative by the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz). The project is part of a broader network of 146 social and research initiatives across communities in 33 cities in the state of Rio de Janeiro.