Churches and other nonprofit organizations in Chattooga County may be eligible for a new round of state funding designed to help organizations protect their facilities and the people they serve.

The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency is accepting applications for the FY2027 Georgia Funds for the Protection of Communities program, which has $5 million available statewide.

The program provides security funding to eligible nonprofit organizations that can demonstrate a need for additional protection against potential threats.

Eligible applicants include qualifying 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, which could include churches, religious organizations and other nonprofit groups in Chattooga County.

Unlike some grant programs, no local matching funds are required.

The grants can be used for eligible security improvements intended to help protect nonprofit facilities, employees, members, volunteers and visitors.

Potential projects can include physical security improvements, security equipment and other measures designed to reduce vulnerabilities at nonprofit facilities, subject to state program requirements.

Applicants are required to complete a vulnerability assessment identifying security risks and explaining how the proposed project would address those concerns.

The program is separate from the federal Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which also provides funding to nonprofit organizations considered at risk of terrorist attacks or other extremist threats.

Georgia lawmakers created the state-funded program to provide an additional source of security assistance for nonprofit organizations.

The application period opened October 1, and organizations have until October 31, 2026, to submit applications.

Funding will be awarded competitively, meaning organizations interested in applying should begin gathering the required documentation and security information well ahead of the deadline.

The program could be particularly relevant to churches and other community organizations that have considered adding or improving security cameras, access controls or other protective measures but have been concerned about the cost.

Organizations receiving funding must follow state grant requirements governing how the money is spent and documented.

Additional information, application materials and eligibility requirements are available through the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency.