(Courtesy of Rep. Gottheimer’s office) On Sunday, May 5, Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) visited Congregation Beth Abraham in Bergenfield to stress the importance of tightening security at local religious institutions and schools. Gottheimer sought to publicize the availability of funds though the Nonprofit Security Grant (NPSG), administered through the Department of Homeland Security and the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness as a critical part of protecting our congregations and our community. Grant applications close May 10.

“The right to practice your religion the way you see fit is at the bedrock of the American idea and we must do everything we can to protect it,” said Gottheimer. “Working with law enforcement and communities of faith, the NPSG offers a great opportunity to make sure our religious institutions, schools and houses of worship are secure. Any institution interested in applying for the grant should reach out to my office (201) 389-1100.”

In 2018, 14 schools, synagogues, churches and organizations in New Jersey’s fifth congressional district received nearly $1.8 million in grants from the NPSG — one of the highest figures of any congressional district in the country. This is an increase of more than $1 million from the year before.