New York Allocates $70M to Protect Nonprofits from Hate Crimes

Security upgrades like cameras, alarms, and cybersecurity tools are part of the new state grant program.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 2:40am

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A serene, photorealistic painting of a two-story brick building with large windows, its facade cast in warm, golden light and deep shadows, conveying a sense of resilience and community purpose.New York's $70 million investment in nonprofit security upgrades aims to safeguard community organizations and preserve the state's welcoming spirit.Buffalo Today

New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced a $70 million initiative to help protect community organizations at risk of hate crimes and attacks. The funding will go towards security improvements such as lighting, locks, alarms, and cybersecurity enhancements for nonprofits across the state.

Why it matters

The program comes as global tensions remain high and concerns about hate crimes continue in New York. Hochul stated the state was built on being a welcoming beacon, and this commitment is now being challenged in communities.

The details

The grants of up to $250,000 per organization can be used for upgrades to lighting, locks, alarms, panic buttons, fencing, access controls, public address systems, and other physical and digital security measures. This latest round of funding builds on over $130 million Hochul has already awarded for similar security projects since taking office.

  • The new $70 million grant program was announced on April 16, 2026.
  • Hochul has awarded over $130 million for security projects since taking office.

The players

Kathy Hochul

The Governor of New York who announced the $70 million in funding to protect nonprofits from hate crimes.

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What they’re saying

“This is a state that was built on being a welcoming beacon for people who were oppressed in other nations, who came here in search of a better life and practiced their religions freely. And now there are times when that commitment, that belief is being challenged in our streets and our schools and our places of worship.”

— Kathy Hochul, Governor of New York

What’s next

Applications for the latest round of security grants are now open, with organizations able to apply for up to $250,000 in funding.

The takeaway

This new $70 million initiative demonstrates New York's commitment to protecting its diverse community organizations and ensuring they can operate safely, even as global tensions and domestic hate crimes remain a concern.