They are granting $210 Million.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced an additional $210 million in funding to support the security of faith-based groups and nonprofit organizations. This funding is part of the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) and will be distributed through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The funds are intended to help these organizations protect themselves against rising hate crimes and targeted violence. This funding is part of the $390 million included in the fiscal year 2024 National Security Supplemental, a priority for the Biden administration.
DHS Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas stressed the critical importance of these grants, particularly for faith-based institutions that are increasingly being targeted. The funds will provide these organizations with essential security resources, including technology, personnel, and other support needed to enhance their safety. Mayorkas also encouraged eligible organizations to apply for the funding, expressing appreciation for Congress’s role in making these grants available.
This new allocation follows an earlier $160 million tranche of funding announced in June. So far this year, more than 3,200 faith-based and nonprofit organizations have received over $454 million from the NSGP to improve security measures such as cameras, lighting, gates, and alarm systems. These funds have also been used for training staff on how to respond to potential security threats.
This initiative builds on previous efforts, including a $375 million grant program signed by former President Donald Trump in 2020 to improve security at houses of worship and other nonprofits. Trump emphasized the importance of creating a secure environment where all communities and individuals can practice their faith freely and safely.
DHS has also taken steps to help faith-based institutions protect themselves, releasing a guide last year on how to enhance security at houses of worship. Additionally, some states, such as New Jersey, have implemented their own measures to support faith-based groups, including providing “bleeding control kits” to help churches and other places of worship respond to active shooter incidents.