Nearly $8.7 million in federal funding is headed to dozens of religious institutions and community organizations across Maryland to help improve security.

Maryland’s congressional delegation announced Friday that 49 organizations will receive a combined $8,627,091 through the Department of Homeland Security’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program.

The program provides money to nonprofits considered at high risk of terrorist or extremist attacks, with funding available for security improvements and preparedness measures.

Nineteen of the recipients are in Montgomery and Prince George’s counties, including the Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School, Chabad Lubavitch organizations in Bowie and upper Montgomery County, Covenant Life Church and School, North Brentwood AME Zion Church, McLean Bible Church’s Montgomery County location and Tikvat Israel Congregation.

Other recipients across Maryland include churches, synagogues, religious schools and community organizations in Southern Maryland, Western Maryland, the Baltimore area and the Eastern Shore. The recipients were selected by the Department of Homeland Security.

Rep. Steny Hoyer said the grant program has become an important resource for protecting houses of worship, schools and community centers.

“With the alarming rise in antisemitism and other forms of hate, it is critical that everyone feels safe when gathering with their communities and congregations,” Hoyer said in a statement.

Members of Maryland’s congressional delegation said the funding comes as religious organizations face continuing concerns about threats and violence.

Congress funded the Nonprofit Security Grant Program at $300 million for fiscal year 2026, up from $274.5 million in fiscal year 2025, according to the delegation.

Source