One day ahead of the midterm elections, Governor Kathy Hochul announced Monday that she will be pouring money into the security of community-based organizations at-risk of hate crimes.
Hochul pledged $96 million on Nov. 7 and announced that nonprofit and community-based organizations that could face prejudice-based violence due to who they serve, their religious beliefs, or other reasons can now apply for the financial boost. According to the Governor’s office, the allocation is the largest amount ever made available through the program.
“Hate has no place in New York, and we will continue to support organizations that are most vulnerable to vicious and violent attacks,” Hochul said. “With this new round of unprecedented funding, these at-risk facilities will be able to fund safety precautions, including cybersecurity projects, to protect vulnerable people from those who would lash out against them due to their ideology, belief or mission.”
It is hoped this funding will not only strengthen security against potential attacks but also additionally boost preparedness. This comes after neighboring state New Jersey faced threats against their synagogues over the weekend, with Mayor Eric Adams even announcing that houses of worship in New York saw a bump in police presence.
Of the $96 million geared toward safety, nonprofits can apply now for $50 million through the State’s Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes Program. Additionally, there will be $46 million awarded to 240 nonprofits through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program.
“This funding and these efforts are positive steps in our fight against hate and intolerance,” Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado said. “The Governor and I will do everything in our power to ensure that the people and organizations within our cities and in our state are protected from hateful acts.”
Hochul also noted that even nonprofit organizations that have previously been awarded grants can still apply to these programs to help fund security projects, including cybersecurity, which for the first time will be considered for funding. In addition, the funding can be utilized toward exterior or interior security improvements such as lighting, locks, alarms, panic buttons, fencing, shatter-resistant glass, blast-resistant film, security training and more.
“A hate crime against one New Yorker is a hate crime against us all. DCJS is proud to administer this funding and I applaud Governor Hochul for her unwavering support in our efforts to strengthen security at organizations at risk of being targeted and to help protect the individuals and families that benefit from the important services they provide,” New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services Commissioner Rossana Rosado said.
For more information regarding eligibility visit the Grants/Funding page of the DCJS website.
