The ISKCON of D.C. temple in Potomac, Maryland will be one of twelve faith-based organizations to receive grant funding from the Faith-based Facilities Security Operating Grants program.

A total of $200,000 has been approved by the local Montgomery County Council as a one-time grant to support County faith-based religious institutions’ efforts to enhance security staffing and planning. 

The funds are administered by the Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security Emergency Management (OEMHS). They are provided to support faith-based institutions which have experienced, or are at high risk of experiencing, hate crimes.   

Along with ISKCON, the centers that will benefit include the Islamic Community Center of Potomac, the Islamic Society of the Washington Area, the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington Inc, the Guru Nanak Foundation of America, Olive Branch Community Church, Takoma Park Seventh-Day Adventist Church and other Muslim, Jewish and Christian centers.

“This faith-based security grant is another way Montgomery County affirms our support for our neighbors of every religion, race and ethnicity and demonstrates our steadfast commitment to protect basic human rights,” says County Executive Marc Elrich. 

“While there is no information about specific, recent threats in Montgomery County, the senseless and vile act that occurred in Christchurch, New Zealand reminds us that hate and evil can callously destroy peace without warning. These grants will provide faith-based organizations with additional resources to enhance their security.”

In addition to the grant funding, OEMHS and Montgomery County Police will provide additional support to all applicants who indicated the need for assistance with security.

The Montgomery County Council approved the $200,000 in grant funds as an amendment to the fiscal year 2019 budget in November 2018, which means funds will be available this spring, after formal Council approval and the signing of contracts with the faith-based facilities.