PITTSBURGH, PA – On Tuesday, Lt. Gov. Austin Davis, chair of the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD), joined state leaders at the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh to unveil a significant boost in funding aimed at protecting nonprofit organizations. The announcement highlighted the availability of $10 million to enhance the safety and security of facilities serving vulnerable communities.
“Hate has absolutely no place in Pennsylvania,” Lt. Gov. Davis declared. “No matter what you look like, who you love, or how you worship, every Pennsylvanian deserves to be safe and feel safe in their community. With the additional $5 million investment that the Shapiro-Davis Administration secured in this year’s budget, even more nonprofit organizations will have the resources they need to keep their members and visitors safe from threats and acts of violence.”
History and Impact of the Program
The initiative is part of the Nonprofit Security Grant Fund Program, now in its seventh cohort. Since its inception, the program has distributed $25 million to more than 580 organizations, impacting an estimated four million Pennsylvanians. State Sen. Jay Costa emphasized the program’s significance amidst rising acts of hatred and violence. “As we continue to face unprecedented moments and acts of hatred and violence in this Commonwealth, it’s up to us as leaders to deliver safety our vulnerable communities can feel,” he said. “I am incredibly proud of the work we have done to establish and expand the Nonprofit Security Grant program, and I look forward to seeing these dollars go to good use protecting our neighbors where they gather, worship, and create community.”
State Rep. Dan Frankel also reflected on the program’s origins, recalling the devastating attack on Pittsburgh’s Jewish community in 2018. “This program was created in the aftermath of a devastating tragedy, when 11 Jews in my district were murdered in their synagogues by a hateful gunman,” he said. “I’m deeply proud that then and every year since we came together to help restore a sense of safety—not just for Jews and not just in Pittsburgh, but for all of the crucial organizations that help support the rich diversity that we are so proud of in Pennsylvania.”
How the Program Works
The Nonprofit Security Grant Fund Program was established under Act 83 of 2019. It mandates that the PCCD administer grants to nonprofits primarily serving individuals or groups targeted by hate crimes. This includes those targeted due to race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity, or other biases.
Eligible organizations can apply for grants ranging from $5,000 to $150,000 for various security enhancements. These include safety planning and training, purchasing security equipment, upgrading structures to improve safety, and conducting vulnerability assessments. The application period closes on August 27, with awards expected to be announced early this fall.
Safeguarding Communities for a Safer Future
The funding comes at a crucial time when many nonprofits face heightened threats. By providing financial support for security measures, the program aims to prevent incidents and foster a sense of safety within communities. Enhanced security can deter potential attackers and reassure individuals that they are protected while accessing essential services.
This initiative is more than just about installing cameras or hiring guards. It’s about affirming the state’s commitment to safeguarding its diverse population. As hate crimes and targeted attacks become more prevalent, having a robust security infrastructure is essential. This funding represents a proactive step in ensuring that all Pennsylvanians, regardless of their background, can feel secure in their environments.
In sum, the Nonprofit Security Grant Fund Program is a testament to Pennsylvania’s dedication to protecting its communities. By addressing the immediate need for enhanced security, the state is also promoting long-term resilience and unity. As organizations prepare to apply for these grants, the broader community looks forward to a safer, more inclusive future.
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