Gov. Gavin Newsom is announcing $80 million in new security grants for nonprofit and faith-based organizations across California following the deadly shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego last week.
Statewide — California is investing more than $300 million to help protect nonprofit organizations and places of worship from hate crimes and violent attacks, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced May 28.
The new funding comes in the wake of the recent tragic shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego.
The governor’s office said the state is awarding an additional $80 million through the California Nonprofit Security Grant Program to strengthen safety measures at 343 nonprofit organizations statewide, including 228 faith-based groups. The latest funding round brings California’s total investment in nonprofit and faith-based security programs to more than $300 million since the initiative launched in 2015.
The announcement comes after the May 18 shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego, which prompted renewed concerns about rising threats targeting religious and community organizations across the country.
“Hate and violence have no place in California,” said Newsom in a statement. “By investing in critical security upgrades, we are leading the nation in protecting places of worship and high-risk communities, strengthening preparedness, and ensuring every Californian can gather safely and without fear.”
Most of the new funding, approximately $76 million, will go directly toward security improvements, including reinforced doors and gates, alarm systems, surveillance systems, high-intensity lighting and emergency preparedness enhancements. The remaining $4 million will support technical assistance and program administration through the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, known as Cal OES.
State officials said the grant program has expanded in recent years as nonprofits, cultural institutions and faith communities face increasing threats of hate-motivated violence. The program is now the largest grant initiative administered by Cal OES.
Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D-Encino), who authored legislation establishing the program, said the grants are an important tool for protecting vulnerable communities.
“At a moment of rising threats, we are doubling down on our commitment to protect our most vulnerable communities,” Gabriel said.
California officials also announced victim support services for individuals and families impacted by the San Diego mosque shooting. The California Victim Compensation Board said eligible victims and witnesses may qualify for assistance covering medical costs, mental health treatment, lost wages and funeral expenses.
The state’s revised budget proposal also includes an additional $40 million to continue supporting organizations facing heightened threats and hate-related violence.
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Bo Tefu, CBM contributed to this report
