DHS Tightens Vetting for Nonprofit Security Grants Amid Alleged Terror Ties
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a comprehensive review of federal security grants for nonprofit organizations, particularly those with ‘alleged terrorist ties,’ following a report that connected past funding to extremist groups. According to a DHS document obtained by Fox News Digital, 49 projects with alleged ties to terrorist activities have already been canceled, with the department estimating the move will save approximately $8 million.
The review primarily targets funding through FEMA’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP), which provides financial support to churches, mosques, synagogues, and other faith-based institutions facing threats of hate-driven violence. The probe was initiated after a report by the Middle East Forum, a pro-Israel conservative think tank, claimed that over $25 million in DHS and FEMA grants went to organizations linked to extremist groups between 2013 and 2023.
A DHS official stated the department is conducting its own independent review but expressed appreciation for the findings of the Middle East Forum and other conservative watchdog groups. The report highlighted specific cases, including a $100,000 grant to the Dar al-Hijrah mosque in Virginia, which had previously been described as a ‘mosque operating as a front for Hamas operatives in the U.S.’ by Customs and Border Protection.
In response, DHS is reviewing all current and future contracts to ensure funds are not awarded to extremist-affiliated organizations, while also examining methods to recover unspent funds. For fiscal year 2024, $94 million has been allocated for 500 Jewish organizations, and an additional $110 million is going to various religious institutions. For 2025, applicants will face stricter requirements to ensure a more robust vetting process.
The Middle East Forum’s report also cited funding directed to the Islamic Circle of North America, which it claims is tied to the South Asian Islamist movement Jamaat-e-Islami. It also highlighted $250,000 awarded to CAIR, which DHS has accused of having ‘Hamas ties,’ and funds going to mosques in Michigan and Texas that the Department described as ‘outposts for Iran’s revolutionary brand of Shi’a Islamism.’
CAIR responded by stating it has no active federal contracts with DHS and criticized the current approach as being influenced by the Middle East Forum. Despite these accusations, FEMA has previously collaborated with CAIR on seminars to encourage participation in the NSGP program. However, CAIR recently urged organizations to withdraw from applying for DHS and FEMA grants unless the new vetting rules are revised, which include cooperation with immigration officials and restrictions on programs related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and aid to undocumented immigrants.
The current developments underscore the ongoing tensions within U.S. policy regarding national security and civil liberties, with significant implications for religious and community organizations seeking government support. As the review continues, the balance between ensuring public safety and protecting civil rights remains a central point of debate.