The Nova Scotia government is offering $100,000 in grants to improve safety in faith-based communities. The Faith-Based Community Safety grant program opened for applications on Tuesday. Individual organizations can apply for up to $5,000 to support security and safety in religious communities that may be at risk of hate, racism or discrimination. “There is no place for hate in Nova Scotia. Everyone deserves to feel safe in their places of worship and in the communities they call home,” said Attorney General and Justice Minister Scott Armstrong in a news release. “These grants will help organizations take practical steps to protect their places of worship and community spaces, build stronger connections and promote inclusion among Nova Scotians.” Applications will be open until Oct. 27. “At a time when we are witnessing a disturbing rise in antisemitism across Canada, as well as hatred and intolerance directed at other communities, this funding is very much needed,” said Rabbi Yakov Kerzner with the Beth Israel Synagogue. “No one should have to be afraid to attend a place of worship or openly practise their faith.” “For communities facing violent hate, including violent Islamophobia, this support will help strengthen safety, security and community capacity,” said Thierno Diallo, government affairs and public policy officer with the National Council of Canadian Muslims. For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page
