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Security Grants for Nonprofits and Places of Worship in California - The Need for Security Funding

Nonprofit organizations – especially faith-based institutions like churches, synagogues, and mosques – are increasingly concerned about safety. Unfortunately, hate-motivated incidents have surged nationally in recent years, putting these community centers at higher risk. Hiring professional security or installing protective measures can be costly, and many nonprofits operate on limited budgets. To help safeguard vulnerable groups, government agencies at both federal and state levels offer grant programs that fund security enhancements for nonprofits and places of worship. These grants can empower organizations to bolster their security without diverting resources from their core mission.


Federal Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP)


At the national level, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) provides funding through the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP). Administered by FEMA, this program provides support for “target hardening and other physical security enhancements and activities” to nonprofits that are at high risk of terrorist attacks or hate-fueled violence. In practical terms, NSGP is designed to help community organizations – including religious congregations and charities – improve their security infrastructure and preparedness.


Scale of Funding: The NSGP has grown significantly in recent years. For example, in fiscal year 2024 the program made approximately $454.5 million available nationwide for nonprofit security projects. This funding is typically divided between nonprofits in designated high-risk urban areas and those in other locations, ensuring that both city-based and smaller community organizations can benefit. Each eligible nonprofit can apply for grant funding (commonly up to a defined cap per site, such as $150,000 or more depending on the year’s guidelines) to support their security improvements. Importantly, NSGP grants do not require the nonprofit to provide matching funds – the full cost of approved security upgrades can be covered by the grant. The funds are generally provided on a reimbursement basis, meaning your organization would implement the approved security measures and then receive grant funds to cover those expenses.


Administration: While NSGP is a federal program, you don’t apply directly to Washington D.C. for these funds. Applications are submitted through your state’s homeland security or emergency services agency (known as the State Administrative Agency, or SAA). In California, the SAA is the Governor’s Office of

Emergency Services (Cal OES). Cal OES collects applications from California nonprofits, reviews and prioritizes them, and then forwards them to FEMA for final approval and funding. This coordination ensures that grant funding is integrated with California’s overall security needs and priorities.


California State Nonprofit Security Grant Program (CSNSGP)


In addition to the federal NSGP, California offers its own State Nonprofit Security Grant Program (CSNSGP) – a state-funded initiative to further support at-risk organizations. The California CSNSGP was created to provide funding for “target hardening and other physical security enhancements to nonprofit organizations that are at high risk for violent attacks and hate crimes due to ideology, beliefs, or mission”. This means California nonprofits (501(c)(3) organizations, including religious congregations) can receive state grant money to improve their security posture.


Funding Availability: California has heavily invested in this program. In the latest round (2024–25), the state made $76 million available in security grants – the largest single-year amount to date. Eligible nonprofits could apply for up to $250,000 per location (with a cap of $500,000 total for organizations with multiple sites) to fund security upgrades. Like the federal program, California’s grants do not require a match from the nonprofit. This generous funding reflects California’s commitment to safeguard community centers: Governor Gavin Newsom nearly doubled the grant funding in 2024 compared to prior years, in response to rising hate-fueled violence.


Impact: These state grants have already benefited hundreds of organizations. In March 2025, Cal OES announced that 347 nonprofits and houses of worship across California were awarded grants from this $76 million program – a record number of recipients. The demand is high: over 1,600 organizations had applied in that cycle, collectively requesting more than $325 million in security funding. This gap highlights that many nonprofits recognize the need for security improvements, so it’s wise to take the application process seriously and put forward a strong proposal (more on that below). Since the inception of California’s program in 2015, the state has awarded over $228 million to around 1,270 high-risk organizations, ranging from churches, synagogues and mosques to community centers and advocacy nonprofits.


What Can the Grants Cover? The California CSNSGP (much like its federal counterpart) focuses on physical and operational security enhancements. According to the Governor’s office, funding can be used for security improvements such as reinforced doors, gates, high-intensity lighting, access control systems, and inspection/screening systemsat nonprofit facilities. These upgrades “harden” a target by making it more resistant to intruders or attacks. The grants administered by Cal OES directly support measures like installing better locks and alarms, security cameras and video surveillance systems, fencing and barriers (e.g. bollards), shatter-resistant windows, and other infrastructure upgrades. Developing or updating security plans and protocols is also an eligible activity – for example, creating emergency procedures or training staff and volunteers in security awareness. In fact, training and planning costs are explicitly allowable under the grant guidelines. The federal NSGP guidance states that “funding can be used for contracted security personnel; security-related planning, exercises, and training; and the acquisition and installation of security equipment (including cybersecurity measures)”. This means nonprofits might use grant funds not only for equipment, but also to hire professional security guards or consultants, conduct security drills, and improve cybersecurity defenses.


It’s important to note that grant funds must be used to enhance security, not replace existing resources. These programs are considered non-supplanting, so you cannot use the money to supplant (swap out) your current security budget or replace equipment you already have in place. For instance, you wouldn’t get a grant to simply replace old cameras that you could otherwise fund – but you could install additional cameras in new areas to expand coverage. Operating costs and personnel overtime are generally not covered, either. The focus is on new protective measures that address identified vulnerabilities.


Examples of Security Upgrades Funded by Grants


To give you a clearer picture, here are examples of security enhancements that nonprofits have pursued with grant funding:

  • Access Control Systems: Electronic keycard or keypad entry systems to secure doors and prevent unauthorized access.

  • Surveillance Cameras: High-resolution CCTV or IP camera systems to monitor entrances, parking lots, and gathering spaces for suspicious activity.

  • Security Lighting: Improved exterior lighting (e.g. motion-activated flood lights, high-intensity parking lot lights) to deter intruders and increase visibility at night.

  • Physical Barriers: Fencing, gates, bollards, and reinforced perimeters to slow down or block unauthorized vehicles and individuals from entering sensitive areas.

  • Reinforced Doors and Windows: Installing blast-resistant or shatterproof windows, solid core doors, heavy-duty locks, and door jamb reinforcement to harden entry points.

  • Alarm and Notification Systems: Intrusion alarm systems, panic buttons, and mass notification systems to alert authorities and building occupants in case of an incident.

  • Security Personnel and Training: Hiring licensed security guards or off-duty police to protect events, as well as training staff/volunteers on security procedures and emergency response.

  • Cybersecurity Measures: Enhancing IT security for nonprofits (e.g. network firewalls, secure communications) to prevent cyber threats that might target the organization’s data or operations.


Each organization’s needs will differ – a small synagogue might prioritize cameras and an access control system, whereas a large community center could focus on fencing and a guard service. A security vulnerability assessment(often required as part of the grant process) will help determine which upgrades make the most sense for your situation.


How to Apply for Security Grants


Applying for these grants can seem daunting, but with preparation your nonprofit can navigate the process successfully. Here are key steps and tips to get started:

  1. Review Eligibility and Grant Announcements: Make sure your organization qualifies. Generally, you must be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit (or a religious congregation automatically exempt under 501(c)(3)). The grants are geared toward organizations at high risk of hate-motivated violence or terrorist attack – if your place of worship or nonprofit has experienced threats or is part of a frequently targeted community, that strengthens your case. Monitor announcements from FEMA and Cal OES for when grant application periods open. For instance, California typically opens its Nonprofit Security Grant application in mid-year; in 2024 the Request for Proposals was released in July and applications were due by September 23, 2024. Each year’s timeline may vary, so stay informed via the Cal OES website and email alerts.

  2. Conduct a Security Assessment: Before applying, perform a thorough assessment of your facility’s security weaknesses. Identify any past incidents or credible threats to your organization. A formal vulnerability assessment is often a required part of the application or at least will inform your proposal. This assessment will justify the security enhancements you are requesting – only items identified as security needs should be included in your grant proposal. You may consider getting a professional security consultant’s help (or even local law enforcement input) to evaluate your site.

  3. Prepare the Application Materials: Gather all necessary documentation and information for the application. This typically includes proof of your nonprofit status (e.g. IRS determination letter or documentation for churches), a written risk assessment or investment justification explaining why your organization is at risk, and details of the security projects you propose (with cost estimates). You will also need to have a Unique Entity ID (UEI) registered in the federal System for Award Management (SAM.gov) if applying for federal funds – this replaced the old DUNS number system. California’s Cal OES may have an online grants portal (as was used in 2024) where you fill in the application; be prepared to answer questions about your current security measures, the threats you face, and how the requested upgrades will mitigate those threats. It’s wise to attend any informational webinars offered by the agency (Cal OES hosted several webinars for applicants to the state program) to learn application tips and requirements straight from the source.

  4. Submit Your Proposal by the Deadline: Grant applications are competitive, so pay close attention to deadlines and submission instructions. Late or incomplete proposals are usually disqualified. In California, applications are submitted electronically through the Cal OES grants system by the specified due date. If you are applying for the federal NSGP, remember that your submission actually goes to Cal OES (the state will forward it to FEMA) – so you must meet the state’s deadline, which could be earlier than the final federal deadline. Double-check whether you’re applying under the Urban Area (UASI) or State (non-UASI) portion of NSGP; California has multiple designated urban areas (like the Bay Area, Los Angeles/Orange County, etc.), and your SAA will guide you to the correct category. Once submitted, your application will be reviewed and scored based on risk and how well your proposed projects address that risk.

  5. Follow Through (Post-Application): After submission, it may take several months for awards to be decided and announced. If your organization is awarded a grant – congratulations! Be mindful that grant funds are typically provided on a reimbursement basis. This means you should plan to purchase the approved security equipment or services with your own funds (or short-term financing) and then request reimbursement from the grant. Ensure you only spend money on the approved items in your grant award and keep thorough documentation (receipts, invoices, etc.). Cal OES or FEMA will outline how to request reimbursement and what reports to file. If your organization did not receive a grant this round, don’t be discouraged; you can often ask for feedback on your application’s weaknesses and reapply in the next cycle. With security needs unfortunately on the rise, these grant programs are likely to continue, and additional supplemental funding is sometimes made available (for example, federal lawmakers added $180 million extra to the NSGP in 2024 through a special appropriation).


Key Resources: For more detailed guidance, FEMA’s NSGP webpage provides an application manual and sample materials. The California Governor’s Office and Cal OES post updates on the state grant program – including the latest Request for Proposals and application instructions – on their websites. Keeping in touch with local nonprofit associations or faith-based coalitions can also alert you to grant workshops and peer support. Remember that preparation is crucial: start early, and ensure your proposal clearly communicates the risks your community faces and how the funding will make everyone safer.


Staying Safe with Support

Security grants represent a vital opportunity for nonprofits to obtain funding that protects their people and property. By taking advantage of programs like FEMA’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program and California’s state grants, even a small community center can afford modern security measures that would otherwise be out of reach. These investments – whether it’s better lighting in a parking lot or a trained security professional at events – can deter threats and potentially save lives. The upshot is a safer environment where your community can worship, learn, and gather without fear.


Preparing a grant application might seem complex, but you don’t have to handle it alone. Many organizations partner with security professionals for guidance. If you need assistance with a security assessment, identifying the right improvements, or navigating the grant process, our team at Mendoza Private Security is here to help. We have experience with the practical side of implementing security upgrades and can offer input to strengthen your grant applications (for example, by providing cost estimates and outlining effective security strategies). Our goal is the same as yours – to ensure your nonprofit and its members are protected. With the right resources and support, you can secure the funding needed to keep your organization safe and focus on what you do best: serving the community.


🔗 Helpful Links for Grant Applicants


 
 
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