RI Delegation Announces Over $1.7 Million in Federal Funding to Protect Nonprofits and Places of Worship from Violence

Providence, RI - TODAY, Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and Congressmen Gabe Amo and Seth Magaziner announced $1,710,000 in federal Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) funding to protect Rhode Island nonprofits and religious institutions against public safety threats.

The federal funds, awarded by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and administered by the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA), are intended to help at-risk nonprofit institutions, synagogues, churches, mosques, and other houses of worship enhance their security infrastructure, training, and systems. Federal NSGP funds can be used to purchase and install appropriate locks, video cameras, bulletproof glass, and other security technology needed to keep them safe.

In 2025, more than 8,000 nonprofits applied for more than $1.3 billion in NSGP funding. Of those applicants, approximately 1,600 organizations were approved and allocated $266 million in funding. Only 20% of applicants received this critical security funding because Congress failed to provide sufficient funding levels.

"Sadly there's been a rise in recent years of threats against parts of America's diverse tapestry of religions and races. Racism, antisemitism, and the like are just plain un-American, and these federal dollars will help protect people. This is an investment in helping vulnerable communities effectively protect themselves from targeted attacks," said Senator Jack Reed.

"No Rhode Islander should have to fear for their safety because of who they are or how they worship," said Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, a senior member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and a former Rhode Island Attorney General and U.S. Attorney. "This delegation remains committed to securing federal funding to protect the rights of our constituents to practice their faith in peace."

"Everyone should be able to gather, worship, and learn in safety," said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). "This fundamental truth is increasingly under assault as antisemitic attacks and other violent acts of hate continue to rock communities. That's why I am proud to lead the charge to fund the Nonprofit Security Grant Program in Washington and will continue working to bring home federal funding to keep Rhode Islanders safe."

"No one in Rhode Island should ever have to fear for their safety in their neighborhood or place of worship," said Congressman Seth Magaziner, member of the House Homeland Security Committee. "This $1,710,000 of federal funding will give local nonprofits and houses of worship the tools they need to protect the people who walk through their doors every day. I will keep fighting alongside the other members of the Congressional delegation to make sure Rhode Islanders have the resources they need to keep one another safe."

Background

Congressman Amo has led the effort to increase NSGP funding. He led a bipartisan effort supported by 149 Members of Congress requesting $1 billion for the NSGP for Fiscal Year 2027. He also led over 130 Members of Congress in requesting $500 million for the NSGP for Fiscal Year 2026.

Congressman Amo has also pushed back against efforts to delay NSGP funding and impose burdensome compliance requirements. He co-led a letter from more than 78 House Democrats calling on the Trump administration to reverse the pause in NSGP funding. He also joined letters opposing compliance conditions on the NSGP that are unrelated to the NSGP's goals and the security of the nonprofits.

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