**Grants for Nonprofits: Governor Healey Allocates $5M to Safeguard Against Hate Crimes & Terror**
In a proactive move to protect nonprofits from hate crimes and terror attacks, Governor Maura Healey has allocated nearly $5 million in state grants to over 100 organizations. This significant funding aims to bolster security measures for these vital community hubs that have become targets of violence and discrimination.
**Statewide Initiative to Combat Rising Hate Crimes**
The announcement of these grants comes at a crucial time, with a recent report revealing a disturbing 26.6% uptick in reported hate crimes between 2022 and 2023. The surge in bias-motivated incidents targeting race, ethnicity, and national origin underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures in vulnerable spaces. Anti-Semitic incidents alone saw a troubling rise from 70 in 2022 to 119 in 2023, highlighting the pervasive nature of hate-fueled violence.
**Investment in Nonprofit Security**
Governor Healey’s office disclosed that in 2024, a total of $16.4 million was earmarked for security upgrades in nonprofits across the state. This substantial investment underscores the administration’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding these essential community institutions. By providing financial support for security enhancements, the state aims to ensure that places of worship, educational centers, and service providers can continue to offer crucial services without fear of violence or intimidation.
**Empowering Communities Through Grants**
The grants awarded to nonprofits were distributed through two key programs: the Commonwealth Nonprofit Security Grant Program and the Commonwealth Nonprofit Security Personnel Grant Program. These initiatives cater to a diverse range of organizations, including religious institutions like synagogues, churches, and Islamic societies, as well as youth centers and educational facilities. Kevin Stanton, the executive director of the state’s Office of Grants and Research, emphasized the pivotal role these nonprofits play in community life, stating that all individuals should be able to access their services without apprehension.
As a resident of the local community, I have witnessed firsthand the invaluable contributions of these nonprofits in fostering unity and support among diverse populations. The recent uptick in hate crimes has cast a shadow of fear over these cherished spaces, making Governor Healey’s funding allocation a beacon of hope for those who rely on their services. By prioritizing the safety and security of nonprofits, our state government is sending a powerful message that intolerance and violence have no place in our communities. Let us stand together in support of these organizations that embody the spirit of unity and resilience.