A new provincial grant program could provide funding to African Nova Scotian churches and other faith-based organizations looking to improve safety and security at their places of worship and community spaces.
The Province launched the Faith-Based Community Safety Grant Program on September 15 through the Office of Equity and Anti-Racism.
The $100,000 pilot program provides grants of up to $5,000 per organization for religious communities that may be at risk of hate, racism or discrimination. Eligible projects can include security assessments, safety planning, preventive security measures, training and support accessing federal funding and resources. Applications are open until October 27, 2026.
The announcement specifically references concerns around antisemitism and violent Islamophobia, and the Province says the program was developed following engagement with the National Council of Canadian Muslims and other community leaders. But eligibility is not limited to Muslim or Jewish organizations.
That could make the program relevant to African Nova Scotian churches across the province.
For generations, Black churches in Nova Scotia have served as more than places of worship. Many have also functioned as community gathering spaces, cultural institutions, meeting places and anchors in historic African Nova Scotian communities.
Organizations considering an application can use the funding for practical safety measures rather than having to frame the work as a larger capital project.
What the funding can support
Eligible activities include:
* security assessments
* safety planning
* preventive safety measures
* training
* help accessing federal security funding and other resources
Organizations can apply for up to $5,000.
The application deadline is October 27, 2026.
The Province says the program supports its Equity and Anti-Racism Strategy and the Dismantling Racism and Hate Act.
African Nova Scotian churches and other faith-based organizations interested in applying can find the program guidelines and application form through the Office of Equity and Anti-Racism.
