ANNAPOLIS, MD—Governor Wes Moore this week announced $6.3 million in funding to protect against hate crimes and to enhance local police recruitment and retention efforts through the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention, Youth, and Victim Services.

“Every Marylander has a role to play in combating racism, bias and hate and in keeping our communities safe,” said Governor Moore. “Through this funding, we will help support both our community partners and our law enforcement partners as we work together to build a stronger, safer Maryland.”

The Protecting Against Hate Crimes program provides $5 million to nonprofit organizations, including faith-based organizations, with facilities and membership that can be targeted for a hate crime to provide security enhancements. Funding supports equipment, personnel, and physical security enhancements.

The Police Recruitment and Retention grant provides $1.3 million to support local law enforcement agencies to support their efforts to recruit and retain qualified sworn police officers. The funding may be used for hiring bonuses, retention incentives, tuition reimbursement and health incentives.

In June, the governor announced the Moore-Miller administration’s new vision to address public safety, which is an all-of-the-above approach focused on supporting law enforcement; building stronger, more vibrant communities; coordinating across all aspects of government; and investing in Maryland’s youth.

A complete list of grantees and awards for both the Protecting Against Hate Crimes program (PDF) and Police Recruitment and Retention grant (PDF) is available through the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention, Youth, and Victim Services.

Photo via Governor Wes Moore