TORONTO, October 15, 2026 — The Ontario government has announced a $12.75-million investment through its Anti-Hate Security and Prevention Grant (AHSP) program, expanding financial assistance for faith-based, cultural and community organizations seeking to improve security and prevent hate-related incidents.
Applications are now open for the program, which provides eligible organizations with grants of up to $10,000 for security improvements and prevention initiatives.
The funding will support measures including surveillance cameras, security personnel, building upgrades, cybersecurity and community education programs.
Ontario Expands Anti-Hate Grant Program With Two Funding Streams
The Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism said the expanded program will address immediate security concerns while supporting longer-term efforts to prevent hate and improve community preparedness.
“Everyone in Ontario deserves to feel safe when gathering to practice their faith, celebrate their culture and connect with their community,” said Graham McGregor, Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism.
“Through the expanded Anti-Hate Security and Prevention Grant program, our government is strengthening support for organizations facing threats of hate while investing in prevention and education to help protect the people and communities they serve.”
Security and Infrastructure Funding
The existing Security and Infrastructure stream will continue financing physical security improvements, cybersecurity protections, staff training and short-term security arrangements.
Organizations may use the funding to strengthen facilities and improve their ability to respond to potential threats.
New Special Projects Stream Focuses on Prevention
The newly introduced Special Projects stream will support community-led initiatives aimed at preventing hate-related incidents through education, awareness and preparedness.
The expansion broadens the program beyond physical security investments to include initiatives addressing the underlying causes of hate.
Religious, Indigenous and Community Organizations Eligible
The program is available to a range of organizations across Ontario, including religious institutions such as mosques, synagogues, temples and churches.
First Nations, Inuit, Métis and Urban Indigenous organizations and communities are also eligible, alongside community-serving institutions such as cultural schools, childcare providers and social service organizations.
Applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Organizations can review eligibility requirements and submit applications through Ontario.ca/AHSP.
Community Organizations Welcome Continued Security Funding
Representatives from several religious and community organizations welcomed the investment, citing the importance of protecting gathering spaces.
“We are pleased to see the government continue to support communities through a new round of funding from the Anti-Hate Security and Prevention Grant. At a time of sustained hatred towards Ontario’s Jewish community, this grant will continue to provide important security support, including funding for CCTV, security equipment and security guards, ensuring synagogues, schools and daycares can focus on programming.”
— Josh Landau, Senior Director, Government Relations (Ontario), Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs
“The Government of Ontario’s Anti-Hate Security and Prevention Grant has been an important resource for improving security in Muslim communities that too often face violent incidents. Proactive preventative measures are what we have been advocating for and we welcome the new round of this grant that brings increased focus on prevention. Such grants not only empower communities to plan for security needs but also take measures that help prevent violent hate incidents.”
— Rizwan Mohammad, National Council of Canadian Muslims
Faith Communities Highlight Previous Security Improvements
“We sincerely thank the Ontario Government for its support through the Anti-Hate Security and Prevention Grant. This critical investment enabled us to upgrade our doors and enhance the safety and security of our congregation, particularly during the busiest times of the year.”
— Surinder Sharma Shastri, President, Hindu Heritage Centre
“The Anti-Hate Security and Prevention Grant has provided vital funding for essential security upgrades at Gurdwaras across Ontario. We thank the Government of Ontario for its continued commitment to supporting the safety and security of our community.”
— Lakhvinder Singh Dhaliwal, Ontario Gurdwaras Committee
“Through this provincial grant, the Welland Be In Christ Church was able to upgrade security and safety measures, providing peace of mind for vulnerable congregants and visitors in a rural location. We are very thankful that this funding supported the installation of video cameras to provide a watchful eye and a cell phone reception booster so help is just a phone call away.”
— Jacqui Eisen, Building Committee Chair of the Welland Be In Christ Church
Ontario Reports More Than $110 Million in Community Support Since 2021
According to the provincial government, Ontario has invested more than $110 million since 2021 to support over 6,900 faith-based and cultural communities and organizations.
Separately, the province allocated more than $2 million through its 2024–2026 Safer and Vital Communities Grant program to assist 15 community-based non-profit organizations and First Nations Chiefs and Band Councils with hate-crime prevention projects.
The latest $12.75-million commitment continues Ontario’s approach of combining infrastructure protection with prevention initiatives. Eligible organizations can now apply for funding to address security needs and strengthen community preparedness.
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