Over $1 million in federal funds has been granted to a California Jewish community security program, Congressman Brad Sherman and the Jewish Federation of Los Angeles (JFEDLA) announced on Tuesday.
The sum of $1 million, allotted to JFEDLA’s Community Security Initiative (CSI), is set to be used to improve its capabilities in Southern California amid concerns over the surge in antisemitic incidents.
“At a time when antisemitism is rising in Los Angeles, across our country, and around the world, protecting Jewish families, students, houses of worship, and community institutions isn’t optional – it’s essential,” Sherman said in a press statement.
“That is why I was proud to secure more than $1 million in federal funding for Jewish Federation Los Angeles’ Community Security Initiative, which has played a vital role in keeping our community safe through threat monitoring, training, and close coordination with law enforcement," added Sherman. "I will continue fighting to ensure the Jewish community has the resources it needs to live openly, proudly, and safely.”
Sherman had requested $1,400,000 for the CSI program from the House Committee on Appropriations last May, for the 2026 fiscal year. JFEDLA President and CEO Rabbi Noah Farkas thanked Sherman on social media and in a joint press release, saying that he showed a “commitment to Jewish community security.”
“For more than a decade, our CSI program has worked with determination to proactively identify threats, conduct security training, and address physical risks associated with hundreds of Jewish institutions,” said Farkas. “This funding ensures CSI can not only continue protecting our community, but will also help improve CSI’s capabilities during this persistent threat environment.”
CSI maintains a database linking Jewish sites over the region, has visited over 480 synagogues, schools, and other institutions, and has provided safety training to 5,530 people, according to the JFEDLA website.
Congress approves $300 million for Nonprofit Security Grant Program
Separately from the grant, Congress passed the Homeland Security and Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Act, 2026, which included $300 million for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program.
The funding of the NSGP, which provides support for security enhancements for nonprofit groups at high risk of terrorist attack, was welcomed by Jewish organizations. The NSGP funding had increased from the $274.5 million provided in 2025. However, many urged an increase in funding for nonprofit security amid escalating antisemitism.
Orthodox Union Advocacy executive director Nathan Diament said last month, “Sadly, even more funding is needed for Jewish community security,” but “this increased level of funding will surely help.”
Agudath Israel of America also praised Congress, but said that the appropriation fell short of Jewish security needs.
“Agudath Israel of America appreciates that the Nonprofit Security Grant Program was included in the DHS funding bill by Congress and even provided a slight increase, but at a time when antisemitism is surging, the security of Jewish institutions needs to be a top priority,” Agudath Israel government affairs national director, Rabbi A.D. Motzen, said last Friday.
“The fact that a majority of grant applicants are turned away due to lack of funds is very concerning,” added Motzen.