The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has recently announced a significant increase in funding to protect faith-based groups and nonprofit organizations. The department plans to distribute an additional $210 million through the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which is administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. This funding is part of a larger $390 million package included in the fiscal year 2024 National Security Supplemental, highlighting the Biden administration's commitment to combating the alarming rise in hate crimes and targeted violence against faith-based institutions and nonprofit organizations.
DHS Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas emphasized the critical nature of these funds, stating that they are more important than ever in the current climate. He explained that this financial support will enable nonprofit institutions, including increasingly targeted faith-based organizations, to equip themselves with the necessary resources to enhance their security. These resources may include personnel, technology, and other essential security measures.
This $210 million allocation is actually the second tranche of funding for this fiscal year, following an initial $160 million that was announced in June. The combined effort has resulted in over 3,200 faith-based organizations and other nonprofit groups receiving more than $454 million in NSGP funds so far this year. These funds can be used for a variety of security enhancements, such as the purchase of cameras, alarm systems, lighting, gates, access control systems, and the implementation of staff training programs.
The increase in funding builds upon previous efforts, including legislation signed by then-President Donald Trump in January 2020, which authorized $375 million in federal grants to help houses of worship and other nonprofit organizations improve their security. The DHS has also taken additional steps to support these organizations, including the release of a guide in December 2023 to help houses of worship enhance security measures against potential threats like mass shooters.
Furthermore, the department maintains regular communication with over 2,000 state, local, tribal, territorial, and campus law enforcement officials. The DHS Center for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships plays a crucial role in this effort by distributing security resources to over 70,000 faith partners.
This substantial increase in funding reflects the growing concerns about the safety of faith-based and nonprofit organizations, particularly in light of the sharp rise in hate crimes and targeted violence since October 7, 2023. The Nonprofit Security Grant Program has become an increasingly crucial resource for these institutions to strengthen their security posture and protect their communities. By providing this financial support, the Department of Homeland Security is demonstrating its commitment to safeguarding diverse communities and organizations across the United States, addressing immediate security concerns while also sending a strong message about the importance of protecting religious freedom and the valuable work of nonprofit organizations in the face of increasing threats and violence.
