Educational Resource
Nonprofit Security Grant Program - Backgrounder (2020)
This USCCB Committee for Religious Liberty backgrounder explains the importance of the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP), a federal program administered by the Department of Homeland Security that helps houses of worship and nonprofit organizations improve security against potential threats and attacks.
Religious Freedom and Security
- The document cites the Second Vatican Council's Dignitatis Humanae, which teaches that governments have a duty to protect religious freedom through effective laws and policies.
- It notes a rise in attacks on religious institutions, including shootings in churches, synagogues, and mosques, as well as vandalism and desecration of religious property. These incidents are described as attacks on religious freedom.
What the NSGP Does
- Created by Congress in 2005, the NSGP provides grants to nonprofits and houses of worship for:
- Security infrastructure improvements,
- Emergency planning and training,
- Upgraded security systems,
- Certain renovation projects designed to enhance safety.
Impact on Catholic Institutions
- Catholic dioceses, schools, and charities have benefited from NSGP grants.
- The backgrounder highlights St. John’s Regional Catholic School in Maryland, which used grant funds to improve security through:
- Exterior lighting,
- Protective window film,
- Playground security fencing,
- Enhanced monitoring systems.
Need for More Funding
- FEMA reported that demand for grants has far exceeded available funding, with only about one-third of eligible applications funded through FY 2019.
- As a result, the USCCB joined other organizations in urging Congress to increase funding to $360 million, four times the FY 2020 level.