As Israel’s war against Hamas progresses, we must have a heightened awareness of the increased threats to our shuls, yeshivos and other community institutions. Of course, we trust in Hashem’s protection but we also must do our part in helping to keep our families and community safe.
_x000D_Agudath Israel is, therefore, urging an increase in the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) to the level of $500 million. NSGP has been of vital assistance to our community in helping to provide our institutions the equipment and enhancements they need to help protect their facilities against the threat of terror. Current levels are simply too low and don’t cover even half the need. In the current environment, the program must surely be significantly increased.
_x000D_We and other Jewish organizations have called upon President Biden to submit a specific request of $500 million in the forthcoming emergency appropriation package.
_x000D_We are also pleased and thankful to Senators Chris Murphy (D-CT), chairman of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, Kristen Gillibrand (D-NY), Gary Peters (D-MI), and Jacky Rosen (D-NV), who have written to the House and Senate Appropriations Committee leadership requesting $500 million for the NSGP to help protect vulnerable religious and nonprofit facilities at high risk of terrorist attack.
_x000D_Agudath Israel supports these senators’ request and we encourage you to contact your senators and representatives and urge them to likewise contact the House and Senate Appropriations Committee leadership and support the $500 million allocation for NSGP, including provisions that will ensure flexibility and rapid disbursement.
_x000D_Click here to take action.
_x000D_Many thanks and hatzlacha.
_x000D_Rabbi Abba Cohen
_x000D_Vice President for Government Affairs
_x000D_Washington Director
_x000D_Rabbi Yossie Charner
_x000D_Director of Congressional Relations
