MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada helps religious and community organizations in Toronto protect themselves against hate-motivated crimes

September 29, 2024
Toronto, Ontario

Everyone who lives in Canada deserves to be and feel safe in their communities. These last few years, we’ve witnessed a rise in hate incidents experienced by many communities. This is unacceptable, and the federal government is taking action to combat hate and protect communities.

Today, the Honourable Marco Mendicino, Member of Parliament for Eglinton-Lawrence, on behalf of the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs, announced an investment of $253,536 to religious and community organizations in Toronto through the Security Infrastructure Program (SIP).

On September 24, Minister LeBlanc announced the newly launched Canada Community Security Program (CCSP), which replaces and enhances the work undertaken through the SIP based on communities’ feedback. The first Call for Applications launches October 1, 2024.

Eligible measures include security equipment and hardware, minor renovations to enhance security, security and emergency assessments and plans, training to respond to hate-motivated events, and time-limited third-party licensed security personnel.

Organizations interested in staying informed about the upcoming CCSP Call for Applications are encouraged to subscribe to the National Crime Prevention Strategy mailing list.

“Antisemitism in Canada is on the rise, and as the Member of Parliament for Eglinton-Lawrence, I am committed to advocating for the community to receive the support they need. I am thrilled to see the allocation of almost $255,000, from the Government of Canada’s Security Infrastructure Program (SIP) for Synagogues, Schools, and Jewish organizations in Eglinton-Lawrence. 

 Jewish parents should be able to send their children to school, without fearing for their safety. Community Centres, Synagogues and Jewish organizations should be able to receive funding for security and surveillance, so when vandalism occurs, the perpetrators will be recorded and brought to justice.  

There is still much work to be done to combat antisemitism in Canada and ensure the safety of the Jewish community here in Eglinton Lawrence. But this is a good start, and I will continue to advocate on behalf of my community and the people I represent. “

– The Honourable Marco Mendicino, Member of Parliament for Eglinton-Lawrence on behalf of the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs