News

Supporting Anti-Hate & Security Measures Grant

NORTH BAY – Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing has announced that the Ontario government is providing 12 places of worship in Nipissing with $87,500 through the Anti-Hate & Security Measures Grant. The purpose of this grant is to safeguard and protect places of worship from hate-motivated violence and attacks.

“Faith-based and cultural organizations across Nipissing work hard to bring our community together and provide a safe and inclusive gathering space to worship, practice their religion and celebrate their culture,” said Vic Fedeli. “We hope this grant will help to support the important work these groups are doing and empower communities most at risk of being targeted with hate-motivated crime feel safer and more secure.”

Applications are now open for the second round of this grant: Ontario Grant to Support Anti-Hate Security Measures for Faith-Based and Cultural Organizations (gov.on.ca)

“While our purpose and mission is to serve and worship God and our neighbour, we have a responsibility to ensure the safety of our community, and to implement measures to foster a sense of security as well, so that we are able to worship freely and without fear. This funding helps us to do just that.” – Rev. Daniele Muscolino, Pastor of Holy Name of Jesus Church, 895 Memorial Drive, North Bay

“We are very pleased and appreciative to be among the recipients of the provincial ‘Supporting Anti-Hate and Security Measures Grant Program.’ We have had several recent incidents of break-ins and graffiti, and we hope these incidents will be reduced or eliminated with help from resources through this program,” said Rev Peter Armstrong, parish priest of St. Brice’s Anglican Church.

“The members and users of Trinity United Church and its several outreach programs appreciate the considerable support of the Anti-Hate and Security Measures Grant Program. As an historic downtown church engaged in outreach to marginalized and often under-housed people experiencing poverty, addiction, and mental health challenges, we have recently experienced several disturbing acts of vandalism, graffiti, and significant property damage. This Grant program has enabled us to install relatively unobtrusive improvements to security and lighting that reduce public destruction, vulnerability and discomfort. This allows us to continue to serve and support our community more safely and effectively. Thank you– we are grateful for the support!” said Rev Ted Harrison, Trinity United Church.

The Ontario Grant to Support Anti-Hate Security Measures for Faith-Based and Cultural Organizations is a $25 million, attestation-based grant that will provide funds to faith-based and cultural organizations to increase safety and security measures.

Eligible applicants must host regular gatherings (i.e., at least once a month) of religious, spiritual or cultural significance. Hosting these gatherings must be a primary activity of the applicant.

QUICK FACTS

• The Ontario Grant to Support Anti-Hate Security Measures for Faith-Based and Cultural Organizations program provides one-time grant payments, on a first come, first served approach, to eligible organizations for expenses related to security and safety measures protecting against hate-related incidents. Eligible expenses include, for example, removing graffiti, motion detectors and CCTV cameras.
• Certain organizations are ineligible, including sports organizations, teams or clubs, and organizations with a primary mandate related to education, health care, housing or social services.
• Organizations must agree to Terms and Conditions, attest that they are in compliance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and Criminal Code, and that funds will be used for eligible expenses related to security and safety measures against hate-related incidents.
• In addition to the Ontario Grant to Support Anti-Hate Security Measures for Faith-Based and Cultural Organizations, the Ontario government developed the Anti-Racism Anti-Hate Grant in collaboration with community partners for local projects that increase public education and awareness on the impact of racism and hate, in all its many forms.