The province is setting aside over 20-million dollars to help combat a rise in hate against religious and minority groups.
The funding is aimed at expanding Ontario’s Anti-Hate Security and Prevention Grant, helping faith-based and cultural organizations implement measures to ensure community spaces remain safe and secure.
All faith-based, cultural, 2SLGBTQQIA+, First Nations, Inuit, Métis and Urban Indigenous organizations who need support and meet the criteria are eligible to receive funding; however, priority will be given to those that primarily serve Jewish and Muslim communities.
Officials say the funding will provide community facilities, including synagogues, mosques, community hubs and Jewish and Muslim schools and childcare centres, with up to $20,000 to help better protect their spaces from hate-motivated incidents, graffiti, vandalism or other damage.
Grant funding can be used for measures such as hiring security staff, surveillance cameras, security assessments, cybersecurity, and building repairs.