Government of Canada helps communities at risk protect themselves from hate-motivated crimes by contributing to increased security at the Islamic Foundation of Toronto

“Recent incidents are a jarring reminder that the inclusive and generous Canada we all want is now, and ever will be, a precious and delicate work-in-progress that we dare not take for granted. The Security Infrastructure Program is an important initiative to help protect all Canadians' right to be free to practice their faith and culture without fear. There is no social license for hate, not in Canada.”

- The Honourable Ralph Goodale, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness

“Through this funding, the Islamic Foundation of Toronto will enhance security. This is a great contribution to ensure their members feel safer and continue to be a strong and vital force for our community. ”

- Shaun Chen, Member of Parliament for Scarborough North

“At this challenging time when faith related organizations are facing hate related crimes, it is paramount that we take serious steps to secure our facilities, especially when we have hundreds of children & seniors, men and women, present on a daily basis. For such an important project, Public Safety Canada funding to improve and upgrade the security infrastructure of Islamic Foundation of Toronto is great. This enhances our confidence that our government cares about us.”

- Akbar Warsi, President, Islamic Foundation of Toronto

• The Security Infrastructure Program is designed to help communities at risk of hate-motivated crime improve their security infrastructure, which will help make Canada safer for all Canadians.

• Funding is available to not-for-profit organizations linked to a community at risk of being victimized by hate-motivated crime. Approved projects may receive up to 50% of total project costs, to a maximum of $100,000 per project.

• In December 2016, important improvements were made to make the program more responsive to the needs of communities. This includes considering a wider range of security measures as eligible for funding (for example, improvements both inside and outside facilities) and reaching out to ensure diverse community organizations are aware of the available funding. Additionally, changes to the application process ensure that funding decisions are provided to applicants within four months of the close of each call for proposal.

• Interested organizations representing places of worship, provincially and territorially recognized schools, and community centers can apply annually from December 1st to January 31st and from June 1st to July 31st through Public Safety Canada’s website, to obtain the application kit and related information.

Associated Links

• Communities at Risk: Security Infrastructure Program

Scott Bardsley
Office of the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness
613-998-5681

Media Relations
Public Safety Canada
613-991-0657

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For more information, please visit the website www.publicsafety.gc.ca.