Security Fund
Protecting the places where Jewish life thrives. We help Jewish institutions outside the United States strengthen their security, so communities can keep learning, connecting, and celebrating.
Protecting Jewish life since 2012
Every school day, holiday gathering, and community celebration depends on a safe place to come together. Security protects more than buildings. It sustains Jewish life. The Jewish Agency’s Security Fund helps synagogues, schools, community centers, and other Jewish institutions strengthen the places their communities call home.
Protecting the places that shape Jewish life
We provide financial support to Jewish institutions outside the United States so they can reinforce their security. Grants cover controlled-entry systems, CCTV and video surveillance, intruder alarms, reinforced doors and windows, perimeter fencing, exterior lighting, x-ray equipment, and gates, along with security training and control rooms.
A lasting commitment to Jewish life
The Security Fund was established in 2012 following the devastating terrorist attack on the Ozar Ha’Torah Jewish day school in Toulouse, France. At the request of the Israeli Government, The Jewish Agency created the Fund to help prevent future attacks and strengthen vulnerable Jewish communities around the world.
Since then, the Fund has helped Jewish institutions outside the United States protect the places where their communities learn, pray, celebrate, and come together. From large cities to small, remote communities, it supports synagogues, schools, community centers, youth facilities, and cultural organizations facing security threats.
Financial assistance is paired with professional security assessment and guidance. Alongside physical protection, the Fund supports training, operational equipment, emergency response capabilities, and security situation rooms. Donors across the Jewish world make this work possible through a shared commitment to mutual responsibility and the future of Jewish life.
In January 2026, The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust announced a $1.5 million grant to improve physical security at 58 Jewish religious, educational, and communal institutions.
Meeting a 40% surge in demand
In 2025, the Fund distributed approximately $6.5 million to keep Jewish communities in 49 countries safe, as requests for support rose 40% over the previous year. The need is growing. Support helps communities invest in practical protection for the places where they learn, pray, and gather.
A rigorous, professional process
Each request moves through staff screening, professional security assessment, and prioritization before a final allocation decision.
Submit an online request
Applications are submitted through the Fund’s dedicated website and electronic form.
Initial review
The Fund’s staff screen each request before it moves to professional security review.
Professional security assessment
Security officers evaluate the request and the institution’s protective needs.
Refine the proposal
Adjustments are made when needed. In some cases, a security officer meets the applicants and assesses needs on site.
Prioritize requests
Once a request is finalized, the Fund’s security staff prioritize it alongside other requests.
Allocation decision
Prioritized requests go to the Allocations Committee, which makes the final funding decision.
Agreement and implementation
Approved applicants receive a contract specifying the support awarded, the implementation timeframe, and reporting requirements.
More than $25 million in unmet needs
In January 2026, The Jewish Agency reported more than $25 million in unmet security needs worldwide. Supporting the Fund helps more communities access the protection they need to sustain Jewish life. Contact our team to discuss supporting this work.
Frequently asked questions
Who is eligible to apply?
Jewish communal institutions outside the United States: synagogues, schools, community centers, youth facilities, and cultural organizations that face security risks. Applications are submitted through our online form.
What kinds of security measures does the Fund support?
Physical protection such as controlled-entry systems, CCTV and video surveillance, intruder alarms, reinforced or bulletproof doors and windows, perimeter fencing, exterior lighting, x-ray equipment, and gates, as well as security training and control-room development.
How are applications evaluated?
The Fund’s staff first screen each request. Security officers then assess it, recommend adjustments where needed, and may arrange an on-site visit. Finalized requests are prioritized by the security staff and presented to the Allocations Committee for a final decision. Approved applicants receive a contract setting out the support, implementation timeframe, and reporting requirements.
What should we prepare before applying?
Prepare details about your organization and facility, a description of your security needs, the amount requested, photographs, and relevant quotations and supporting documents. The application also asks you to confirm that your organization has a bank account in its own name.
Are there costs the application does not cover?
The current application form excludes internal cameras, wooden doors, CPR kits, weapons, human resources, and rental payments. Consult the application for detailed requirements, or contact saf@jafi.org about your proposed project.
Does the Fund respond to emergencies?
Yes. As reported in January 2026, the Fund had allocated $2.1 million in emergency grants to 586 Jewish institutions in 62 countries following October 7, 2023. Contact the Fund about current assistance options.
How can I support the Fund?
For information about supporting the Security Fund or partnership opportunities, contact our team at saf@jafi.org.
Our supporters
Help us protect Jewish life, wherever it is lived
Help more communities access the security they need. Contact our team about supporting the Fund, or apply for assistance for your institution.