NASHVILLE, Tenn. — State Rep. Iris Rudder, R-Winchester, announced the opening of the application window for the 2024-25 Houses of Worship Security Grant.
The competitive grant is administered by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security to assist houses of worship in hiring trained security professionals.
“Houses of worship should always be a sacred and safe place for everyone,” Rudder said. “These grants provide an opportunity for religious organizations to secure a trained professional to help keep their congregations safe. I encourage all eligible groups to apply as soon as possible.”
Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations serving as houses of worship can receive up to $100,000 under the grant program. Trained security professionals funded through this program can help respond in emergency situations and prevent tragedies before they happen.
All applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on July 12. Instructions on how to apply can be found on the Department of Safety and Homeland Security’s website.
The General Assembly devoted $750,000 to fund the Houses of Worship Security Grant as part of its $52.8 billion zero-debt balanced budget that was passed in April. Republican priorities included making significant investments in health care, public safety, education and rural economic development.
Iris Rudder represents District 39 which includes Franklin and Marion Counties. She serves as the Chairwoman of the Public Service Subcommittee. She’s also a member of the Health Committee, Insurance Committee, State Government Committee, Insurance Subcommittee and the Population Health Subcommittee.
