Councilman David G. Greenfield is alerting all nonprofit community organizations including yeshivas and shuls about an important opportunity to receive funding through the New York State Division of Homeland Security’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program to upgrade security at their facility. Applications for up to $75,000 to subsidize security upgrades are due by midnight on Monday, June 10th and require a detailed application, so Councilman Greenfield is urging all eligible groups to act immediately to take advantage of this opportunity for funding.

“I know that many local yeshivas, shuls and other institutions are concerned about security in light of all of the threats that exist today and the realities of the world we live in. This is a great chance for neighborhood organizations to receiving funding to upgrade security at their building to keep everyone safe. I urge all groups to consider applying for funding through the Nonprofit Security Grant Program before the deadline passes,” said Councilman Greenfield.

For 2013, $10 million has been allocated to the grant program, with awards of up to $75,000 per eligible nonprofit institution for target hardening and other physical security enhancements and activities. Nonprofit organizations that are deemed to be at “high risk” for a terrorist attack and are located within urban areas including New York City are eligible to apply. The program was initially on hold this year due to federal sequestration, but funding to support it was announced late last month. Grant applications must be submitted electronically via the automated New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services E-Grants system, and a registration request form can be found HERE.

“Unfortunately, the sad reality is that our community and religious institutions remain a target for those who wish to harm innocent people. We must remain vigilant against this threat and take all necessary steps to keep our synagogues and yeshivas safe and secure,” added Councilman Greenfield.

For more information, visit the NYS Homeland Security and Emergency Services website and click on the link for FY2013 Urban Area Security Initiative Nonprofit Security Grant Program – Request for Applications. Please contact the NYS Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services at 1-866-837-9133 or Councilman Greenfield’s office at (718) 853-2704 for help completing the application.

(YWN Desk – NYC)