Lawmakers, Religious Leaders Push $1 Billion for Worship Security Grants
Updated
Updated · NPR · May 24
Lawmakers, Religious Leaders Push $1 Billion for Worship Security Grants
10 articles · Updated · NPR · May 24
$1 billion is being sought on Capitol Hill to expand the Nonprofit Security Grant Program for houses of worship, as religious leaders and lawmakers press for stronger physical protections.
The push centers on boosting a federal program that helps nonprofits harden facilities against threats through security upgrades and other defensive measures.
In 2024, only about one-third of applicants received funding, a shortfall advocates cite as evidence that current support falls well below demand.
The campaign aims to turn that gap into a much larger federal commitment to protect churches, synagogues, mosques and other worship sites.
Beyond billion-dollar grants, what is the long-term solution to the rising tide of hate against faith groups?
Can houses of worship truly harden defenses without sacrificing their open, welcoming spirit for the community?