Today, the DC government announced $976,500 in security and preparedness grants for District non-profit organizations operating at faith-affiliated institutions. The grants are managed through DC’s Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency (HSEMA) as part of the US Department of Homeland Security’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP). These grants support efforts for target hardening, planning, training, and other security-related activities. The funding can used to purchase physical security enhancements such as cameras, new doors, locks, and gates.
“On the heels of tragedy, we continue the work of building a more peaceful world–a world in which hatred and evil are erased and our country has common-sense gun control,” said Mayor Bowser. “And as we continue this work, we remain focused on defending DC values and celebrating and uplifting our city’s unique and strong sense of inclusivity and diversity. Through grants like these, we can do more to ensure residents and visitors feel safe throughout the District–especially in our places of worship.”
Nine District nonprofits will receive between $30,000 and $150,000 to integrate security activities with broader District-wide preparedness efforts. The awards are being issued to the following organizations:
- Adas Israel Congregation - $150,000
- Edlavitch Jewish Community Center of Washington, DC Inc. - $150,000
- Milton Gottesman Jewish Day School of the Nation’s Capital, North Campus - $150,000
- The National Presbyterian Church Inc. - $150,000
- The Georgetown Synagogue - Kesher Israel Congregation - $140,000
- Sixth & I Synagogue Inc. - $81,500
- New Bethel Baptist Church - $75,000
- Washington National Cathedral - $50,000
- Jewish Policy Center - $30,000
“Over the next few months, HSEMA will be hosting a first-of-its-kind preparedness series for District nonprofits, including faith-based organizations,” noted HSEMA’s Director, Dr. Christopher Rodriguez. “Through workshops across the District, we will empower and educate nonprofits about the importance of conducting physical threat assessments, encouraging personal preparedness to their communities, and developing robust applications to secure future funding.”
To learn more about the NSGP, visit https://hsema.dc.gov/page/applying-nsgp.