[Video below.] New York Governor Kathy Hochul on Wednesday unveiled an additional $35 million in funding for the state’s Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes Grant Program, bringing the total available funding to $70 million and marking one of the largest investments to date in protecting vulnerable institutions across the state.
The announcement was made at a public event attended by community leaders and government officials, including Rabbi Yeruchim Silber, Director of New York Government Relations at Agudath Israel of America, and Rabbi Ephraim Gurell, Government Affairs Associate in Agudath Israel’s New York Office of Government Relations.
Governor Hochul emphasized the urgency of the initiative amid rising threats against religious and community institutions.
“As governor, I’ll never rest until I know that all New Yorkers are safe. …Since 2021, we’ve invested $131 million in securing communities against hate crimes, securing more than 1,700 projects and nonprofit organizations because of a heightened risk. Today, I’m making up to over $70 million in new funding available through this program.”
The newly announced funding is included in the FY27 Executive Budget and builds upon the $35 million already allocated in the FY26 Enacted Budget. The program is designed to support nonprofit, community-based organizations that face heightened risks of hate crimes or terror-related threats, particularly in light of ongoing instability in the Middle East.
“There’s a saying I’ve used many times, but I really mean it: Hate has no place in our state. This is a state that was built on being a welcoming beacon for people who are oppressed in other nations, who came here in search of a better life and practiced their religions freely. And now there are times when that commitment, that belief, is being challenged in our streets and our schools and our places of worship,” Hochul said.
She also described the growing normalization of visible security measures at religious institutions, recalling a recent visit. “Last month, I went to the Park Avenue Synagogue and spoke with Rabbi Cosgrove, and he told me something that stayed with me. He said it has become normalized for people to see law enforcement with long guns outside the doors to protect their right to go worship their G-d. This is New York City…and no one should have to encounter that specter which automatically triggers fear.”
The governor added that her administration is also pursuing additional security measures. “As governor, I’ll never rest until I know that all New Yorkers are safe…. And in this budget, I’m calling for a 25-foot buffer upheld by our police around places of worship — I want to get that done.”
During the event, Hochul singled out Rabbi Silber for his advocacy work. “Rabbi Silber, I want to thank you for your leadership and your leadership and your voice in this important matter.”
Rabbi Silber, who then addressed the gathering, expressed appreciation for the administration’s continued support. “Thank you, Governor Hochul. You have been a strong voice moral voice in this issue ever since you took office,” he said.
He added, “Your words and actions have demonstrated your commitment to fighting antisemitism and all forms of hate… Today’s announcement is a continuation of your commitment to protect and be there for our vulnerable communities.”
The grants have already made a significant difference on the ground, said Rabbi Silber. “Because of these funding increases, many summer camps in remote areas have been able to install high tech fencing to keep out intruders. Many schools have greatly enhanced their security systems and many yeshivos have been able to hire full-time security guards to protect their students.”
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{Matzav.com}
Kumbaya
Wow The Agudah got young blood in. Next generation taking the lead
Vote Blakeman and crime will go down. So will our taxes.