August 5th, 2023 by WCBC Radio

U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, David Trone and Glenn Ivey. today announced $15,910,021 in fiscal year 2023 Department of Homeland Security preparedness grants to strengthen security at houses of worship in Maryland. 

The federal funds come through the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which helps high-risk nonprofits, including faith-based institutions, to obtain resources required to support and integrate preparedness activities with broader state and local efforts.

“Religious freedom is one of the defining promises of our democracy,” said the lawmakers. “As hate-fueled attacks increase throughout the country and world, we must dedicate our resources to protecting citizens who exercise the sacred right to practice their faith. These grants will ensure that houses of worship from Mountain Maryland to the Eastern Shore are equipped with the latest tools to keep their communities safe.”

The Department of Homeland Security awarded more than $2 billion in FY 2023 to help prepare against threats and natural disasters. The total amount for each grant program is set by Congress and the allocations are made by the Department.