HARRISBURG, PA — In an assertive move to bolster the safety of nonprofit organizations throughout Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) has announced the allocation of $10 million in funding aimed at combating hate crimes. This funding, part of the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, is set to enhance the security infrastructure of 208 nonprofit organizations spanning 31 counties across the Commonwealth.
Governor Josh Shapiro underscored the importance of this initiative, emphasizing the right of all Pennsylvanians to worship and gather in peace. “All Pennsylvanians deserve to worship peacefully, no matter what you look like, where you come from, or who you pray or do not pray to,” Shapiro stated. This commitment is reflected in the recent state budget, which doubled investments in the nonprofit security grant fund to equip places of worship, such as mosques, churches, and synagogues, with necessary security measures.
Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis, who chairs the PCCD, reiterated the administration’s dedication to fostering a secure and inclusive environment for all residents. “The Shapiro-Davis Administration is committed to fostering a sense of safety and belonging for everyone,” Davis explained, highlighting that thanks to an additional $5 million secured in the budget, a significant number of organizations are receiving this funding for the first time to fortify their security measures.
Since its inception, the Nonprofit Security Grant Fund Program has disbursed $25 million to over 580 organizations. This initiative has had a wide-reaching impact, with an estimated four million people benefiting from the enhanced safety measures at these facilities.
The eligible entities for this funding include a diverse range of nonprofit organizations, particularly those serving populations vulnerable to bias-motivated hate crimes as identified by the FBI. This includes faith-based institutions, community centers, and other organizations serving specific groups. The funding can be utilized for various security enhancements, including safety planning and training, security equipment procurement, structural upgrades, and threat assessments.
This funding is part of a broader strategy by the Shapiro-Davis Administration to improve community safety across Pennsylvania. The 2024-25 state budget not only doubled the investment in the Nonprofit Security Grant Fund but also allocated $45 million to the Violence Intervention and Prevention (VIP) program and $11.5 million to the new Building Opportunity through Out of School Time (BOOST) initiative. These programs aim to reduce community violence by providing resources and opportunities for youth, emphasizing a holistic approach to public safety.
Applications for the VIP and BOOST programs are currently open, with a deadline of October 31, 2024, ensuring a continued focus on community safety and support for vulnerable populations throughout Pennsylvania.
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