Hate crimes are on the rise across the country, and the federal government is responding with significant financial support to secure vulnerable community spaces. Public Safety Canada has announced a new investment totaling $913,111 to help protect religious and community organizations in Mount Royal, Quebec.

Securing Vulnerable Spaces

The funding, announced by Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree and Mount Royal MP Anthony Housefather, will support 11 different organizations. These recipients include schools, places of worship, and other community gathering spaces that face heightened risks of hate-motivated violence.

Organizations will use these funds to implement tangible safety measures. Approved projects include upgrading security equipment and hardware, completing minor renovations to fortify buildings, and conducting security assessments. The investment also covers training for staff to respond to hate-motivated events and allows for the hiring of time-limited, licensed security personnel.

Combatting a Rise in Hate

This move comes as communities—particularly the Jewish community in Mount Royal—face an increase in targeted incidents. Anthony Housefather, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience, highlighted the urgency of this support.

“Mount Royal riding is home to a diverse and vibrant set of communities. It is home to the second largest Jewish community of any riding in the country,” Housefather stated. “Sadly and regrettably, the rise in anti-Jewish hate across the Western world has been felt in this riding and across Canada, where Jews remain by far the most targeted group for hate crimes in the country.”

The Canada Community Security Program

This funding flows through the Canada Community Security Program (CCSP). Launched in 2024 to replace the former Security Infrastructure Program, the CCSP offers financial assistance to communities at risk of hate-motivated crime.

Minister Anandasangaree emphasized that safety is a fundamental right for all Canadians.

“No one in Canada should ever feel unsafe because of who they are, how they pray, or the community they belong to,” Anandasangaree said. “Through the Canada Community Security Program, the Government of Canada is providing the resources organizations need to strengthen their security and protect the people they serve.”

Since 2007, the government has invested over $41 million into nearly 1,000 similar projects nationwide. The CCSP remains one of four pillars under the National Crime Prevention Strategy, operating alongside funds for youth gang prevention and Indigenous crime prevention.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Canada Community Security Program (CCSP)?
The CCSP is a federal initiative that provides funding to community organizations and places of worship at risk of hate-motivated crimes. It helps cover costs for security infrastructure and personnel.

Who can apply for this funding?
Private, non-profit organizations that are at risk of being targeted by hate-motivated crime can apply. This typically includes religious institutions, community centers, and educational facilities.

What can the funds be used for?
Eligible expenses include security assessments, training, security equipment (like cameras and alarm systems), minor renovations for security purposes, and hiring temporary licensed security guards.