24 Apr Cal OES Announces $39 Million in Awards for Security & Safety

By Michael J. Fitzgerald

The state Office of Emergency Services this month announced $39 million in awards to 193 community groups across the state to reinforce efforts to protect Californians from hate-motivated violence.

This follows Gov. Gavin Newsom’s $20 million investment in the California State Nonprofit Security Grant Program last October to further the state’s efforts to reinforce safety and security at nonprofit and faith-based organizations.

Newsom and the state Legislature approved the funding in the 2023-24 state budget. It provides grants for physical security enhancements to nonprofit organizations that are at high risk for violent attacks and hate crimes due to their ideology, beliefs or mission.

Since the start of the program in 2015, the state has awarded more than $152 million in state funding to 924 community groups.

“These important security investments will help protect diverse communities across the state from acts of violence and hate,” Newsom said in a press release. “Regardless of background, faith, or identity, every Californian deserves safety and security.”

The demand for the funds has been high, state officials said. In recent months, the state reviewed a record 1,254 applications. They represent more than $255 million in need in communities across California, nearly double the previous record.

Possible security enhancements at the organizations include reinforced doors, gates, high-intensity lighting and access control systems, and inspection and screening systems.

Organizations — particularly those that may be targeted on the basis of race, religious affiliation, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, immigration status or similar criteria — may apply for funds through a competitive grant process.

“We hope the resources provided through these grants will help local organizations take proactive steps to enhance their security,” said Cal OES director Nancy Ward.

Applications are graded using criteria set out in the request for proposal, taking into consideration the risk of specific threat, vulnerability and infrastructure requirements.

Contra Costa County organizations receiving grants were Congregation B’nai Tikvah Of Walnut Creek, Prospect Sierra School at Avis Drive and at Tapscott Avenue (both in El Cerrito) and Temple Isaiah of Contra Costa County in Lafayette.

This resource is supported in whole or in part by funding provided by the State of California, administered by the California State Library in partnership with the California Department of Social Services and the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs as part of the Stop the Hate program. To report a hate incident or hate crime and get support, go to CA vs Hate.