Colorado granted $1 million to nonprofits – notably churches, mosques synagogues – to help them with security measures amid heightened tension following the outbreak of war between Israel and Hamas in October.

Synagogues, in particular, beefed up their security arrangements after the Oct. 7 Hamas attack, which killed 1,200 people, and Israel’s retaliatory strikes, which the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said killed 21,900.

Gov. Jared Polis on Tuesday said the money is going to 30 nonprofit organizations deemed at high risk of terrorist attacks due to their ideology, beliefs or mission.

“In Colorado, everyone should be safe to worship as they choose without fearing for the safety of their family, friends, or loved ones,” Polis said.  

Established in 2022, the Nonprofit Security Grant Program provides funding for physical security measures and enhancements to organizations, which may use the money for trainings and exercises, buying and installing equipment, and hiring security personnel. 

Earlier this year, the program partially funded nine organizations for roughly $408,000. The additional $1 million will extend funding to 21 more applicants, while fully funding the first nine awardees. 

The Colorado General Assembly’s budget committee approved the additional funding on Dec. 20. 

“Every person in Colorado deserves to worship freely and safely, and these grants make that possible for Coloradans of all faiths,” said Rep. Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora. “With the rise in anti-Arab, Islamophobia, and antisemitism, this bill is more vital than ever. We passed this legislation to directly address the increased challenges that many houses of worship face, and I am proud to see this additional funding be awarded.” 

“Since the horrifying Hamas attacks on October 7, we’ve seen a major uptick in antisemitism, Islamophobia, and other forms of violence and threats both here in Colorado and across the country,” added Sen. Dafna Michaelson Jenet, D-Commerce City. “I am deeply worried about the safety of my community. This is why we passed this law, which is helping protect our communities from violence by providing critical grant funding to improve security at synagogues, churches, temples and mosques.”