The recent attack on a Michigan synagogue is sparking renewed calls for the importance of enhancements to security at nonprofits and religious organizations.

Demand for nonprofit security grants from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) is growing for local organizations.

“We have realized that with a large number of people in and out of our building that we need to make sure we’re doing everything to keep anyone who comes in here safe,” CEO Terri Travers said.

Bulletproof glass, Kevlar-reinforced front desks, and cameras now surround the York JCC.

The funding from the PCCD comes from legislation passed in 2019 following the shooting at the Tree of Life Congregation synagogue in Pittsburgh, which suffered the deadliest antisemitic attack in U.S. history when a gunman killed 11 worshippers.

The initiative continues to grow, providing roughly $11 million to around 200 non-profits across Pennsylvania, with state officials saying hundreds have applied.

Leaders explained to FOX43 that taking action is necessary as hate crimes continue to rise.

“There’s a real awareness at this point that these unfortunate incidents have happened in Pennsylvania and beyond, and that awareness has caused people to be more proactive,” Travers said.

The Anti-Defamation League reported more than 9,000 antisemitic incidents across the U.S. in 2024, up 3% from the year before.

The funds are designed to support safety and security upgrades for organizations like the JCC that may be at risk of targeted attacks.

Officials explained that eligible groups can apply for funding to install surveillance cameras, reinforced doors, and other protective measures.

“It has allowed especially staff to feel much more comfortable knowing that we have taken necessary steps to help ensure their ability to do their job safely,” Travers said.

The JCC underwent construction updates in 2025, utilizing more than $100,000 in nonprofit security grants from the PCCD.

“People want to make sure their facility is as safe as possible, and the more information that comes out from different law enforcement and from, unfortunately, different incidents that have happened, the better we can all be prepared,” Travers said.