Press Release  Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $3 Million in Commonwealth Nonprofit Security Grants

Boston — BOSTON – Today, the Healey-Driscoll Administration announced $3 million in state nonprofit security grant funding for 47 organizations at increased risk of hate crimes or terror attacks. In addition to the annual Commonwealth Nonprofit Security Grant Program (CNSGP), the Administration awarded funds as part of a new pilot grant program focused on assisting with security personnel costs. Together, the complementary programs provide needed funding for on-premises security measures.

“Today’s recipient organizations contribute immeasurably to the life of our Commonwealth as nonprofits fulfilling unique missions,” said Governor Maura Healey. “The security enhancements made possible by this funding ensure their continued preparedness against potential threats. Our Administration remains committed to ensuring the safety of those they service as centers of community, art and culture, learning, and social services.”

“All of us depend on nonprofit organizations like today’s recipients to provide safe dedicated space for the most important moments in life,” said Lieutenant Governor Kimberley Driscoll. “I commend the CNSGP recipients for their work to identify meaningful security enhancements to secure their premises, which range from a large, dynamic concert hall to serene houses of worship. Their vigilance gives all of us peace of mind.”    

The Office of Grants and Research (OGR), a state agency within the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS), manages and administers the annual CNSGP. Thanks to the continued support of the Massachusetts State Legislature, the 2023 program delivered $2.85 million to 36 at-risk nonprofits with the goal of addressing security vulnerabilities with equipment to harden soft targets. Eligible security enhancements include security systems and door locks. For the first time this year, in addition to the CNSGP, OGR piloted a new grant opportunity to provide assistance with the cost of security personnel. 11 recipients received $150,000 for this purpose.  

“The diversity of today’s recipients reflects the broad range of nonprofit organizations who share our vision for public spaces across Massachusetts,” said Public Safety and Security Secretary Terrence Reidy. “As cultural, educational, faith-based, healthcare, social service, and supportive living institutions, their impact depends on providing safe access to programming and services. I thank the OGR team for their outreach to and support of at-risk community applicants in this competitive process.”  

“These grants are an investment in the central belief that everyone should be able to gather in faith without fear or to safely access needed services. Our nonprofit partners play a vital role in promoting public safety in our Commonwealth, and we are committed to ensuring the safety of these institutions,” said OGR Executive Director Kevin Stanton.

The following organizations received funds through the Commonwealth Nonprofit Security Personnel Grant Program.

The following nonprofits were funded through the Commonwealth Nonprofit Security Grant Program. 

Organizations interested in receiving information on future funding opportunities in support of public safety, security, violence prevention and traffic safety initiatives can sign up for email notifications from OGR.

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