Mayor Muriel Bowser, alongside the District of Columbia Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency (HSEMA), is calling on the city’s nonprofits and houses of worship to get their piece of a federal grant aimed at beefing up security. In a time where the fabric of public safety can feel as though it’s fraying, these funds are crucial for organizations that are often pillars of stability and service within the community. The Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) is backed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and has been tailored specifically for organizations that are integral to the social framework of D.C.
According to a press release from the Mayor’s Office, eligible institutions can apply for up to $200,000 per location, and organizations that operate multiple venues can submit applications for up to three locations, potentially netting a total of $600,000. However, the deadline looms, with applications required to be in by January 9, 2026. HSEMA Director Clint Osborn highlighted the role these nonprofits and religious outfits play during crises, stating, “Nonprofits and houses of worship often provide essential response services, helping coordinate crucial aid and volunteers.” Osborn’s agency is at the forefront of ensuring these entities can continue serving the district without the shadow of potential threats.
The NSGP funding can be used for a variety of security enhancements. Organizations can invest in physical security upgrades such as reinforced doors, fencing, and cybersecurity systems, among others. This initiative isn’t just about brick-and-mortar defenses; it also considers the increasingly digital nature of threats, offering a lifeline for cybersecurity improvements. It’s a bid to fortify those who heal, shelter, and educate against the unseen incursions of the digital age as well as the all-too-visible dangers that loom outside their doors…