Eleven local faith-based and non-profit organizations will benefit from $1.48 million safety and security grant organized by the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) grants, with four organizations receiving funding for the first time.
Mayor Muriel Bowser announced the beneficiaries of the grants on Thursday, October 10 and noted that six nonprofits will receive the maximum award amount of $150,000.
“Our places of worship are an integral part of our community, and this funding helps us ensure the continued safety and protection of our neighbors while they worship,” said Mayor Bowser. “Hate has no place in Washington, DC and I’m grateful to the teams of people who work every day to uplift our DC values and keep our community safe.”
The NSGP aims to enhance facility security, including upgrades for organizations at heightened risk of hate-based crimes or violent attacks. Grant funding can be allocated for physical security improvements such as cameras, reinforced doors, locks, security lighting, gates, and hiring security personnel.
This program is funded annually through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and is administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), with local awards managed by the District of Columbia’s Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency (HSEMA).
“Faith-based organizations and nonprofits are critical stakeholders in the District’s public safety ecosystem, and we remain committed to providing tools, training, and financial support to increase community resilience,” said HSEMA Director Clint Osborn. “The Nonprofit Security Grant Program is a step towards combatting rising faith-based attacks in the District and the National Capital Region.”
In FY23, FEMA allocated $305 million to nonprofit organizations nationwide, with this year’s funding increasing to $454.5 million. The NSGP is designed to integrate nonprofit preparedness with broader state and local efforts.
Since 2019, the District’s Interfaith Preparedness and Advisory Group has facilitated collaboration among various entities, including the Mayor’s Office of Religious Affairs, the Metropolitan Police Department, and HSEMA, focusing on cybersecurity and information sharing regarding hate-based threats.
Additionally, in FY25, the Deputy Mayor’s Office of Public Safety and Justice plans to announce further funding opportunities to support security for religious institutions.
