Grant Will Fund Security For Chesco's Kesher Israel Congregation

WEST CHESTER, PA — The state Commission on Crime and Delinquency will provide a Chester County Jewish congregation funds to improve security.

State Rep. Christina Sappey (D-158th), some of whose constituents attend Kesher Israel Congregation said, “Unfortunately, this state is no stranger to hate crimes and religious violence. We have to give these places of worship every line of defense they need to feel safe and secure during their time of prayer.”

State Rep. Dianne Herrin (D-156th) announced this week that $23,000 in Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency grants has been approved for Kesher Israel Congregation of Chester County from the Nonprofit Security Grant Fund Program.

According to the Anti-Defamation League, the Keystone State Skinheads/Keystone United hate group has its headquarters in Harrisburg and the group has claimed it has an active chapter in Chester County.

The ADL reported in a 2017 account of anti-semitic events one in Chester County. "Nazi symbols and racist graffiti specifically targeting Jews and blacks were spray-painted at several locations, damaging a storefront, a Mercedes Benz, and a garage," the ADL article said. The incident happened in Coatesville.

“Hate crimes are an unfortunate reality in our society, and this money will help protect against tragedies at the religious communities in our district,” Herrin said. “To make sure patrons of our places of worship feel safe, we must do what we can to provide them with security and peace of mind. Any place of worship should be a safe place.”

The grant funding may be used for security enhancements designed to protect the safety and security of the users of the facilities, including safety and security planning, purchases of safety and security equipment, and security-related technology. Technology might include metal detectors, protective lighting, surveillance equipment, deadbolts or electronic locksets, trauma kits, and other materials, Herrin's office said.

The funding can also be used for safety and security training.

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