Department of Homeland Security’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program Funds Training and Security Enhancements

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — In the aftermath of the deadly shooting that occurred in New Zealand, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott recommends continued training and preparation for active shooter incidents to ensure the safety of all communities.

Following the shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pennsylvania last October, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California brought together faith leaders to discuss strategies and to provide training to deal with active shooter incidents in houses of worship. In an ongoing effort to keep our community safe, the Department of Homeland Security provides practical assistance to high risk groups.

The Department of Homeland Security’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) competitively awards grant funding to assist nonprofit organizations that are considered to be at high risk of terrorist attack and located within a designated urban area. NSGP provides up to $75,000 to nonprofit organizations for training and physical security enhancements, including fencing, surveillance systems, security systems, and lighting. It is also designed to promote coordination and collaboration in emergency preparedness activities among public and private community representatives, as well as state and local government agencies.

The grant program is administered by the California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) Infrastructure Grants Unit, which administers the program for the Department of Homeland Security. The Department of Justice does not administer the grant program.

In preparation for the release of the Notice of Funding Opportunity, Cal OES will be conducting a webinar on Tuesday, April 2 to explain the NSGP requirements and assist nonprofit organizations with the application process. . Please see the attachment for further details.

DHS has indicated that there will be $60 million in grants available nationwide for nonprofit 501(c)(3) tax-exempt groups.