DENVER - In response to an evolving and challenging threat environment to religious entities and non-profits, Governor Polis announced $250,000 in immediate additional funds for organizations that are at increased risk of threat or attack like synagogues, mosques, or other places of worship, along with programmatic adjustments to expedite funding within the parameters of the existing Nonprofit Security Grant Program. This new funding, in conjunction with funding from the existing Nonprofit Security Grant Program, will support immediate and emergent security enhancements and other security-related needs in light of the tragic attack on a peaceful gathering of people outside the Boulder Courthouse on June 1, 2025. The state is reaching out to a list of previous applicants to encourage applications for this funding.
“Sadly, as antisemitism and other forms of hate and instances of violence are on the rise, we know that our places of worship, religious schools, and other places of gathering in communities face increased risk. This additional support will help ensure that upgrades are made to increase safety,” said Governor Jared Polis.
Funding from the Colorado Nonprofit Security Grant Program, established by HB22-1077, can be used to cover the installation of security equipment on property owned or leased by the nonprofit organization; security-related planning, exercises, training, and contracted security personnel; new or existing infrastructure; or other security enhancements. As part of that existing program, funding from a $1,000,000 annual appropriation is made available beginning at the start of the fiscal year – July 1. To qualify, non-profit entities must first apply for funding through the federal non-profit security grant program. Under the existing program, entities are eligible for state funds only if they apply for but are not granted funding from the federal program.
The additional $250,000 in funding announced today is provided from state dollars used for emergent needs that was established as a part of the COVID 19 recovery. This funding will be deployed to support organizations that face emergent needs on a rolling basis. Non-profits and any entity with urgent security needs will be eligible to apply for this funding, regardless of whether they have applied for federal funds. DHSEM and the Department of Public Safety will develop criteria for applications for those new funds and will announce those criteria shortly.
In 2024, Governor Polis and the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management announced $1 million dollars to support 21 applicants to the Colorado Nonprofit Security Grant Program. Today’s announcement builds on those efforts.
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