Everyone, regardless of their identity, deserves to feel safe in Canada. However, over the last number of years there has been a concerning rise in hate in Canada. When left unchecked, hate can have devastating consequences for our communities and our country.
Earlier this week, our government launched the new Canada Community Security Program (CCSP) and announced that the program will be ready to receive funding applications from eligible organizations as of October 1st, 2024. The CCSP replaces and enhances the Security Infrastructure Program (SIP) and will provide funding to organizations for:
- security equipment and hardware
- minor renovations to enhance security
- security and emergency assessment and plans
- training to respond to hate-motivated events
- time-limited security personnel
Under the CCSP:
- Eligibility for funding has expanded to include office and administrative spaces, cemeteries, and child care centres.
- Up to 70% of a project’s eligible costs may be covered, an increase from 50% of the cost under the SIP.
- Funding for time-limited third-party licensed security personnel is now a permanent feature of the program.
- The maximum level – or stacking limit – of total government assistance (across federal, provincial, territorial, and municipal sources) has been removed, which opens up more opportunities for organizations to apply for other sources of funding.
- Application requirements have been changed to reduce administrative barriers.
- Organizations can apply for funding at any time throughout the year through a continuous intake application process.
- Organizations may apply for funding and deliver projects on behalf of affiliated eligible recipients.
In addition, our government has also launched Canada’s first-ever Action Plan on Combatting hate. The Action Plan brings together 20 key federal initiatives grounded on three pillars:
- empower communities to identify and prevent hate;
- support victims and survivors, and protect communities; and
- build community trust, partnerships, and institutional readiness.
The Action Plan invests $273.6 million over six years, and $29.3 million ongoing, to tackle hatred from multiple angles. It includes increasing support to victims and survivors, helping communities prevent, address and protect people from hate; enhancing research and data collection; providing greater resources for law enforcement; and raising public awareness.
Far too many people’s lives are impacted by hate and its devastating consequences. With our Action Plan on Combatting Hate and the CCSP, our government is taking immediate action to keep the communities we work, learn, and raise our children in safe.
