The Ontario government has announced an additional investment of $12.75 million in the Anti-Hate Security and Prevention Grant to help protect communities from hate-motivated incidents. This funding will support faith-based and cultural organizations by enabling them to install or enhance safety measures such as security guards, building upgrades, and surveillance systems. The initiative reflects the province’s commitment to ensuring that all residents feel safe and respected in the places where they gather.
The grant is open to a wide range of organizations, including religious institutions, Indigenous groups, and cultural communities. Eligible applicants are encouraged to apply, with funding provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Since 2021, Ontario has invested more than $98 million through this program, helping over 3,000 organizations strengthen their security. The AHSP grant offers up to $10,000 per organization to support new or improved safety measures.
Community leaders from Jewish, Muslim, Sikh, Hindu, and Catholic organizations welcomed the government’s renewed investment, emphasizing the importance of enhanced security in maintaining safe and inclusive community spaces. Many groups highlighted how rising hate crimes have increased the need for protective measures and noted that the grant has offered practical support during times of heightened concern.
This funding builds on other provincial initiatives aimed at preventing hate crimes, including over $2 million allocated through the Safer and Vital Communities Grant program to support prevention-focused projects across Ontario. The latest investment underscores the province’s effort to strengthen community safety and uphold the values of inclusion and respect.
