Jewish organizations in Massachusetts are seeking state grants for security upgrades such as advanced surveillance cameras, cement barriers and bullet-proof glass in response to anti-Semitic acts.
The state program provides funds for security upgrades to nonprofits.
The Boston Globe reports that Jewish nonprofit organizations including synagogues, schools and hospitals made up 22 of the 25 program applications for the last fiscal year, totaling $885,000.
Three received funding.
Program funding has increased in recent years from $50,000 to $500,000.
According to the Anti-Defamation League, 144 anti-Semitic incidents were reported in Massachusetts in 2018. That was down from 177 in 2017, but high compared to the 50 reported in 2015.
Applications for this fiscal year will be accepted in the fall. The grants are capped at $50,000 per project.
