FEMA Awards $12.7​M To Help Nonprofits Fight Terrorism In NYC

NEW YORK CITY — Over $12 million has been distributed to nonprofit organizations in New York City that are at an increased risk of terrorism, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said on Wednesday.

In a news release, the governor announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Nonprofit Security Grant Program has awarded $17 million to 178 nonprofits across New York.

Of that, $12.7 million has been distributed within the city's metro area including Westchester, Nassau and Suffolk Counties to address what the Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI) Program has designated as a high-risk urban area.

Another $4.3 million went to other organizations throughout the state.

"The cancer of hate and division spreading across this country is repugnant to the values of diversity and inclusion we hold dear in New York State," Cuomo said in a statement. "This funding builds on the efforts already started by New York to help secure communities against hate and will enable organizations throughout the state to ensure they are protected against those seeking to do harm."

The nonprofit organizations — which include schools, cultural centers and religious institutions — can use the funds to protect against hate crimes.

The funding is designated to afford risk management and response plans, security equipment, the hiring of security personnel, training for employees and members and exercises to help prepare for emergency situations.

In a statement, New York State Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Patrick A. Murphy said protecting different groups of people is one way the state bolsters diversity.

"As part of New York's long history of embracing and promoting diversity, we continue to combat threats aimed at individuals and organizations simply because of their culture and beliefs," Murphy said. "Thanks to this funding however, those at risk will be able to access critical security resources to ensure they are protected as they continue their good work helping to improve their communities."