ALBANY, N.Y. (VINnews) — Gov. Kathy Hochul on Tuesday announced up to $70 million in new funding to help nonprofit and community organizations strengthen security against hate crimes and potential attacks, as dozens of community leaders — including many Jewish elders from across New York — attended the event.

The funding is part of the state’s Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes program and combines $35 million proposed in the fiscal 2027 budget with $35 million already allocated. Officials said the investment comes amid heightened global tensions and continued concerns about threats targeting religious and cultural institutions.

Organizations can apply for grants of up to $250,000 to support security upgrades such as surveillance systems, access controls, reinforced infrastructure and cybersecurity improvements. The program is expected to fund hundreds of projects statewide.

Rabbi Niederman @UnitedJewish joined today @GovKathyHochul and leaders announcing the opening of applications for 70 Million dollars of Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes applications for shuls, Yeshivas and other institutions. pic.twitter.com/H06AArdOcG

— WILLIAMSBURG NEWS (@WMSBG) April 15, 2026

State data shows reported hate crimes declined across much of 2025 compared with the prior year, though New York City reported an increase early in 2026. Anti-Jewish incidents made up the largest share of reported cases.

Since taking office, Hochul has directed more than $131 million toward similar efforts to protect nonprofit institutions and houses of worship. Applications for the latest round are due in July, with awards expected later in the year.

New nonprofit organizations and those that previously have received funding through the Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes program are eligible to apply for this round of funding. Eligible organizations include community and civic centers, cultural museums, daycare centers and other nonprofit organizations at risk of hate crimes or attack because of their ideology, beliefs or mission, applicants must provide vulnerability assessments that show they are at risk and how the proposed security project will help safeguard their facility or facilities and protect the people who use them.

The deadline for applications is noon Wednesday, July 8. Information about funding eligibility requirements, instructions and guidelines is available on the DCJS website. Grant awards are expected to be announced in the fall.