State Awards Nearly $5 Million to Protect Nonprofits from Hate Crimes

BRAINTREE — The Healey-Driscoll administration announced that 167 nonprofits across Massachusetts have been awarded $4,965,000 in grants to improve security in order to protect their facilities, members, and staff from hate crimes and extremist violence.

The awards were distributed through two state-funded grant programs: the Commonwealth Nonprofit Security Grant Program (CNSGP) and the Commonwealth Nonprofit Security Personnel Grant Program (CNSPGP). Both programs are administered by the Office of Grants and Research (OGR), which will assist each of the nonprofits with the management of their grant.

“Hate and violence have no place in Massachusetts,” Gov. Maura Healey said. “Organizations that serve our communities should never have to worry about their safety. These grants will help nonprofits strengthen security so people can safely gather, practice their faith, and access the services they rely on.”

Public Safety and Security Secretary Gina Kwon noted that “our approach to public safety relies on strong collaboration with nonprofits across Massachusetts. These grants provide organizations the resources they need to protect their staff, clients, and facilities, ensuring they can continue the important work that benefits everyone in our communities.”

OGR Executive Director Kevin Stanton added that “everyone has the right to safely gather in prayer, receive medical care, or seek services. Through the effective management of these grant programs, we’re able to assist many of the organizations serving our communities by ensuring they have the resources needed to protect against hate crimes and terrorism.”

A record number of organizations sought funds through this year’s grant programs, with 274 eligible applications received for CNSGP and 53 for CNSPGP.