Press Release  Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards Over $4 Million to Protect Nonprofit Organizations From Hate Crimes

Boston — The Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced that more than $4 million in federal funds have been awarded to address priority security needs at faith-based and community service organizations at heightened risk of a hate crime or terror attack.

A total of $4,013,340 has been awarded through the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP). The program is managed and administered in Massachusetts by the Office of Grants and Research (OGR), a state agency that is part of the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS). 

“Communities rely on nonprofit and faith-based organizations for essential social services, spiritual support, and guidance,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Our Administration is deeply committed to ensuring these vital organizations have the tools and resources needed to create safe, inclusive, and protected environments. These federal funds provide critical support to our nonprofit and faith communities while strengthening Massachusetts’ ability to uphold our values and celebrate our diversity.”

“Today’s grant recipients are the cornerstones of our communities and pillars of support for our neighbors in need,” said Lt. Governor Kimberley Driscoll. “With resolve and determination, we remain focused on taking proactive steps to help prevent and mitigate against future incidents of hate crimes. These grants reaffirm our commitment to enhancing community preparedness and safeguarding sacred community spaces from bias-motivated attacks.”

“EOPSS is committed to working in close collaboration with our community and faith-based partners to protect all Massachusetts residents and ensure that individuals have the fundamental right to practice their faith without fear,” said Public Safety and Security Secretary Terrence Reidy. “No organization or agency can ‘go it alone’ when it comes to public safety. This grant funding will advance our shared goal of enhancing community resiliency. Together, we can meet today’s challenges while planning for tomorrow’s possibilities.”

In addition to serving as the State Administrative Agency (SAA) for NSGP and all other FEMA grant funds received by Massachusetts, OGR manages the state-funded Commonwealth Nonprofit Security Grant Program and Commonwealth Nonprofit Security Personnel Grant Program.  Both programs are currently accepting applications for funding through October 13.

“Nonprofits face unprecedented challenges and threats.  It is up to all of us to combat hate and to support the organizations and individuals harmed through acts of hate or terrorism,” said OGR Executive Director Kevin Stanton. “These programs are designed to ensure that everyone in Massachusetts can gather in prayer, receive medical care, or obtain services with the knowledge that they are safe and protected.”

To learn about available homeland security, criminal justice and traffic safety grants administered by OGR, sign up to receive email notifications of available funding opportunities.

The organizations receiving NSGP awards are:

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