The federal government has announced a nearly $150 million increase in funding for the protection of religious organizations this year, addressing a surge in antisemitism since October 7.
The Department of Homeland Security revealed last week that it has allocated a record $454.5 million for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program in this fiscal year. This represents a substantial boost from the $305 million allocated in 2023.
Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, who is Jewish, emphasized the importance of these funds, stating, “The funds announced today will provide communities across the country with vital resources necessary to strengthen their security and guard against terrorism and other threats. The impact of these grants will be measured in lives saved and tragedies averted.”
The Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which began in 2005 with an initial allocation of $25 million, has historically provided significant funding to Jewish institutions, including synagogues and day schools. This year’s funding continues this trend, as noted by the Orthodox Union. However, the program is open to all religious denominations facing credible threats. Recently, Muslim and Black Christian institutions have also applied for these grants, often with assistance from Jewish organizations familiar with the application process.
* The Jerusalem Post contributed to this article.