Governor Hochul Announces $32 Million in Federal Funding to Strengthen Security for Nonprofits Facing High Risks of Terrorism

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced more than $32 million in federal funding to support the efforts of 157 nonprofit organizations facing an increased risk of terrorist or other extremist attacks to strengthen the security of their facilities, as well as enhance their overall preparedness. This funding, provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency through its Nonprofit Security Grant Program, is being allocated to New York through two separate awards - $28.4 million for organizations within the New York City Metro Area and $3.6 million for organizations throughout the rest of the state. The program is administered by the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services.

"The Nonprofit Security Grant Program is a critical part of our strategy to thwart domestic terrorism in New York State," Governor Hochul said. "No matter where we gather, we have the right to peaceful and respectful assembly without fear of violence or vitriol. This effort requires no less than the full partnership of those who are involved in creating a safer environment for all those who live, work and visit our great state."

Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Terry O'Leary said, "New York's non-profits play a vital role in communities all across our state and this funding will help them safeguard their infrastructure, improve preparedness, and boost training to deter acts of terrorism and hate crimes. We will continue to work with our partners across all levels of government to prevent bad actors from causing harm and make New York a safe place for all."

Nationwide, a total of $274.5 million is being provided through the Nonprofit Security Grant Program in FY2025. Of this amount, $137.25 million in funding was made available to nonprofit organizations located within one of the Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI)-designated high-risk urban areas. The remaining $137.25 million was reserved for jurisdictions outside of the UASI-designated areas. In New York, the state's UASI-designated high-risk urban area is the New York City Metro Area. Specifically, this consists of New York City, as well as Westchester, Nassau and Suffolk Counties.

Allowable costs include planning such as security risk management, continuity of operations and response plans; equipment, including physical security enhancement and inspection/screening systems equipment; active shooter training and security training for employees or congregation members; response exercises and contracted security personnel.

Senator Charles Schumer said, "Amid rising threats - especially those we have seen across New York City and Long Island - and the striking rise in antisemitism and hate crimes, it has never been more important to ensure that New Yorkers gathering in houses of worship, dropping their children off at school, or visiting their local JCC or other faith-based community center are protected from harm. Federal security programs like NSGP are a cornerstone of effective preparedness against terror threats and hate crimes, and these federal funds will go a long way toward keeping New Yorkers safe. We must continue fighting for more funding until every community's security needs are met, while confronting head-on the poisonous prejudice and ignorance that fuel these attacks."

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said, "Every New Yorker deserves to worship and gather without fear. I am proud to deliver this critical funding to protect our houses of worship and nonprofits, because nothing is more important than keeping New Yorkers safe."

Representative Joe Morelle said, "No community should have to live in fear because of hatred, violence or extremism of any kind. I thank Governor Hochul and all of our partners for their continued commitment to protecting New Yorkers and strengthening the security of organizations critical to our communities."

About the State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services
TheDivision of Homeland Security and Emergency Services provides leadership, coordination and support for efforts to prevent, protect against, prepare for, respond to and recover from terrorism, natural disasters, threats, fires and other emergencies. For more information, visit the DHSES Facebook page, follow @NYSDHSES on X, or visit their website.

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