Local Shtiebles to Get Security Upgrades from the UJA-Federation of New York

by CrownHeights.info

Fifty Shtiebles around the highly Jewish areas of Brooklyn will be getting security upgrades thanks to a fund set up by the UJA-Federation.

The $250,000 fund was created in the wake of the Colleyville, Texas hostage situation, and looks to help protect shuls with fewer than 200 members and staff. Eligible shtibels would have to be in the Midwood, Kensington, Williamsburg, Crown Heights, Borough Park and Flatbush neighborhoods.

The program, to be run by the Community Security Initiative (CSI) — a joint initiative of UJA-Federation and JCRC-NY — and will look to close a crucial gap in funding that often leaves out smaller shuls from accessing funding from government or other sources for physical security enhancements. The new security enhancement packages can include the installation of new doors, locks, and video cameras, and will be followed by active shooter and access control training for staff or key congregants.

“No synagogue should be left without proper security measures just because they lack access to necessary funding,” Eric S. Goldstein, CEO of UJA-Federation, said in a statement. “Whether praying in the largest shul in Manhattan or the smallest shtiebel in Brooklyn, every Jew deserves the right to worship in peace and security.”

Shuls seeking funding and training can apply online at jcrcny.org/smallshuls.