Democrats Demand Trump Administration Release Homeland Security Grant Funds for Houses of Worship and Nonprofits

(WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, led 33 House Democrats in sending a letter to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) demanding the fair and transparent release of funds to nonprofit organizations through the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP).

“We are alarmed that the administration has not awarded the $275 million that Congress made available for NSGP in fiscal year 2025 given the escalating threats that nonprofit organizations—including synagogues, churches, and mosques—continue to experience,” the Members wrote. “Further, FEMA continues to disregard the congressionally mandated outreach, engagement, and educational assistance to advise nonprofits on how to apply for NSGP.”

Members expressed frustration with the Trump administration’s refusal to share basic program information with Congress. “In further departure from precedent, the administration has yet to share with Congress which nonprofits received NSGP awards from the National Security Supplemental funding, despite awards having been made months ago and repeated bipartisan requests. Congress has invested historic levels in NSGP and the administration’s refusal to share information with Congress hurts the ability of Congress to properly assess resource needs.”

Members also expressed concern about reports that DHS may be discriminating against Muslim organizations. Through press releases and multiple oversight letters, Democrats for nearly a year have been demanding the release of NSGP and other counterterrorism funds that the Trump administration has withheld from the American people. Today, Democrats called on DHS and FEMA to expedite awards to nonprofit organizations, share information with Congress and nonprofits, and rescind guidance or directives that could violate anti-discrimination laws.

The full letter can be found here.

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