By: Fern Sidman

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced Tuesday the reopening of applications for the federal Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP), making $274.5 million in funding available to help nonprofits strengthen their security infrastructure. According to a report that appeared on belaaz.com, the decision underscores the Trump Administration’s prioritization of combating antisemitism, a concern the President has repeatedly emphasized in recent months.

A White House source informed belaaz.com that the reopening of the program was made possible through the coordinated efforts of Ambassador-Designate Rabbi Yehudah Kaploun, Trump aide Martin Marks, and senior DHS staff. Applications are now open and must be submitted by August 11.

As belaaz.com reported, the Nonprofit Security Grant Program allows eligible organizations to apply for federal funds to bolster safety measures at their facilities. Such upgrades may include the installation of cameras, reinforced entryways, enhanced perimeter protection, and the hiring of trained security personnel.

Since its creation, the NSGP has enabled thousands of faith-based institutions across the United States to implement security enhancements. Jewish organizations, in particular, have been among the leading recipients of these grants, reflecting the ongoing need for heightened vigilance in the face of rising antisemitic incidents nationwide.

The urgency of this year’s program is magnified by the approach of the Yamim Noraim, the Jewish High Holidays, which draw large gatherings to synagogues and community centers. belaaz.com noted that this period often represents a time of increased vulnerability for Jewish institutions, making the timing of the DHS announcement particularly significant.’

In a statement highlighted by belaaz.com, Nathan Diament, Executive Director of the Orthodox Union Advocacy Center, praised the program’s reopening. “With the High Holidays approaching and threats to Jewish communities rising, this funding is more important than ever,” Diament said. “We urge every eligible Jewish institution to apply. These grants can help save lives.”

The Orthodox Union had been actively lobbying for the reopening of the NSGP. Diament specifically pointed to the collaborative efforts that made the release possible, acknowledging support from both the Administration and members of Congress. “We at Orthodox Union Advocacy are very grateful to our allies in the Trump Administration, especially Amb.-Designate Kaploun and the White House Faith Office, for working to get this critical funding released. We also thank our allies in Congress, especially Senators Lankford, Britt, and Collins,” Diament said.

According to the information provided at belaaz.com, the Trump Administration has repeatedly positioned antisemitism as a national security concern requiring robust federal response. By reopening the NSGP at a moment of heightened tension, DHS has signaled a renewed commitment to supporting at-risk communities.

With the August 11 deadline approaching, Jewish institutions are expected to mobilize quickly to secure funding for enhanced protections. As belaaz.com emphasized, these grants represent not only financial assistance but also a lifeline for vulnerable communities preparing for the most significant season in the Jewish religious calendar.

Below is a practical guide to assist Jewish institutions in navigating the application process:

The NSGP was created to help at-risk nonprofits strengthen their ability to prevent, protect against, and respond to potential terrorist or hate-based threats. Jewish institutions—synagogues, schools, community centers, and other communal facilities—are among the program’s highest-priority applicants, given the documented rise in antisemitic incidents across the United States.

Eligible organizations can use funding for surveillance cameras and alarm systems, reinforced doors and windows, fencing, bollards, and perimeter barriers, security personnel and training and cybersecurity improvements.

All nonprofit organizations with IRS 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status may apply, but institutions must demonstrate that they face heightened risks. For Jewish institutions, citing recent antisemitic threats or incidents in the application can strengthen the case.

Organizations should prepare documentation such as proof of nonprofit status, a security assessment or risk analysis (often prepared with help from local law enforcement or security consultants), and records of prior incidents or threats.

The Investment Justification (IJ) is the core of the NSGP application. This document must explain the institution’s risks, vulnerabilities, and proposed security solutions. Applicants should focus on describing credible threats (antisemitic vandalism, online threats, or past incidents), demonstrating how requested funds directly address those threats and outlining how improvements will protect both congregants and the wider community.

Applications are not sent directly to DHS but instead submitted through each state’s State Administrative Agency (SAA). Each state has slightly different requirements and timelines, so Jewish institutions should contact their SAA immediately to avoid delays.

Because the federal deadline is August 11, states may set earlier cutoffs for internal review. Institutions should confirm local timelines as soon as possible.

This program represents not only financial support but also a critical opportunity for Jewish communities to safeguard their institutions during a period of heightened vulnerability.