Press Release  Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards Nearly $3.5 Million to Protect Nonprofits

Braintree — The Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced that 30 Massachusetts nonprofits at high risk of terrorist or extremist violence will receive nearly $3.5 million in federal funds for security improvements.

The grants, totaling $3,490,193, were awarded through the federally funded FFY25 Nonprofit Security Grant Program. The program is administered in Massachusetts by the Office of Grants and Research (OGR). The program provides funding to help nonprofits that are at risk of a terrorist or other extremist attack enhance their security to protect lives and property. Projects funded through the grants include contracted security personnel, access control systems, shatter resistant window film, barriers to prevent vehicle rammings, and other priority security equipment.

“Everyone has the right to gather, pray and seek services safely,” said Governor Maura Healey. “These grants allow us to protect houses of worship and other organizations from extremist violence. This administration is committed to ensuring the rights of every person in Massachusetts to live free from fear.”

“The right to practice one’s faith freely and safely is essential, and our administration is committed to ensuring that no one experiences harm while practicing this right,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “We will not allow threats or acts of violence to infringe on free expression or the freedom of religion, and the security investments made through these grants will help further protect members of our communities.”

“The Healey-Driscoll Administration recognizes the important role of non-profit and faith-based organizations in making Massachusetts the best place to live and raise a family,” said Public Safety and Security Secretary Gina Kwon. “This grant program is one element of our strategic efforts to strengthen the integrity of the spaces where they provide essential social services and gathering space for people from every walk of life. I commend the Office of Grants and Research for facilitating this program and the community leaders for their thoughtful approach to the safety plan behind each grant application. They will always have our support as public safety leaders.”

“This grant program is among the most popular initiatives offered by this office,” said OGR Executive Director Kevin Stanton. “State and federally funded nonprofit security grant programs enhance the safety of organizations across Massachusetts that are at risk of threats, intimidation or violence because of their beliefs or mission. We’re committed to ensuring that these nonprofits have access not only to resources but to the technical and grants management support they need to ensure they can use these funds effectively.”

OGR expects to make applications available this fall for the state funded Commonwealth Nonprofit Security Grant Program and Commonwealth Nonprofit Security Personnel Grant Program, which provide resources for Massachusetts nonprofits that are at high risk of a hate crime or extremist attack. Organizations that are interested in learning about grant opportunities as they become available may sign up for OGR’s email notification list.

Since 2023, the Office of Grants and Research has awarded more than $23 million in state and federal funds to support nonprofits at risk of hate crimes or extremist attacks. In addition to the federally funded Nonprofit Security Grant Program, OGR supports at-risk nonprofits through the state funded Commonwealth Nonprofit Security Grant Program and Commonwealth Nonprofit Security Personnel Grant Program. Applications for these annual grant programs will be announced this fall. 

FFY25 Nonprofit Security Grant Program recipients are:

Since taking office, the Healey-Driscoll Administration has strengthened law enforcement responses to acts of hate. 

• Hate Crimes Awareness Response Team (HART): In November 2023, Massachusetts State Police (MSP) launched HART to streamline reporting of hate-based incidents and strengthen statewide responses. The team was recognized by Anti-Defamation League New England (ADL New England) for their efforts to combat antisemitism.
• Civil Rights Symposium: The Municipal Police Training Committee, in partnership with EOPSS and MSP, held its third annual statewide Civil Rights Symposium this month. More than 200 law enforcement professionals attended the event to gain deeper knowledge of hate crime investigations, civil rights issues and other topics. 
• Faith-Based Organizations Safety and Security Seminar: In November 2025, the Massachusetts State Police Fusion Center hosted its seventh annual security summit for faith-based organizations at Gillette Stadium, bringing together public safety and security officials with faith leaders to promote safety in houses of worship and other facilities. Massachusetts State Police will announce details about the eighth annual summit this fall.

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