(Boston, MA) – The Jewish Community Relations Council applauds Governor Charlie Baker for proposing $1,000,000 in additional funds for state Non-Profit Security Grant program in his latest supplemental budget filing. This proposal, along with the $500,000 included in the recently signed state budget, would fund close to 30 grants for vital security enhancements and protocols at houses of worship, community centers, and other institutions at heightened risk of violence.

Earlier this Spring, JCRC released a letter, signed by close to 150 Jewish institutional leaders from across the Commonwealth, to Governor Baker and state leaders asking for increased funding for this vital initiative.

“We thank Governor Baker and his Administration for unequivocally endorsing the right for all people to gather in safety,” said Aaron Agulnek, Director of Government Affairs for the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Boston. “Fear and violence have no place in our communal spaces and these additional funds will help restore a feeling of peace. However, while this is a strong step towards that goal, we urge our allies to combat the motivation for these acts of hatred. Education and mutual respect, not fortification, remains our ultimate hope.”

The supplemental budget will be taken up by the House and Senate in the coming weeks. JCRC urges the legislature to act swiftly on this appropriation.