The Ontario government is investing $25 million in a new grant program to help faith-based and cultural organizations protect their communities against hate-motivated crime.
The new Ontario Grant to Support Anti-Hate Security Measures for Faith-Based and Cultural Organizations will help eligible organizations cover expenses related to security and safety measures including enhancing the security of their buildings and training staff on how to respond to hate-motivated violence.
“Faith-based and cultural organizations across Ontario work hard to bring communities together and provide a safe and inclusive gathering space to worship, practice their religion and celebrate their culture,” said Parm Gill, Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism on Thursday. “We hope this grant will help to support the important work these groups are doing and empower communities most at risk of being targeted with a hate-motivated crime feel safer and more secure.”
Eligible organizations include charities and not-for-profit corporations that host, as a primary activity, regular gatherings of religious, spiritual, or cultural significance at least once a month, and that rent or own indoor facilities used for these gatherings. The government will provide up to $10,000 in one-time grants, based on the organization’s revenue.
Organizations are required to use the funds to enhance the security of their facility, complete security assessments, and/or train their organizations on how to respond to a hate-motivated incident. More information on eligible expenses can be found on our website.
“In recent years we have seen a disturbing rise in community-reported hate-related crimes, including increased acts of antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Asian racism, which has placed a tremendous burden on faith-based and cultural organizations. Creating safer communities and protecting the rights of everyone to live free of fear and intimidation will help build a more inclusive and equitable Ontario,” said Minister Gill.
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