Canada’s federal government is allocating $10 million to strengthen security at Jewish institutions following a series of gunfire attacks on synagogues in the Toronto area. The funding will be distributed through the Canada Community Security Program to support places of worship, schools, child care centres, camps, and other community institutions at risk of hate-motivated crimes.

The program covers security upgrades such as protective barriers, reinforced windows and doors, security assessments, emergency response planning, staff training, and the hiring of licensed security personnel. Applications are accepted year-round to help communities respond quickly to emerging threats.

Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree said the Jewish community’s fears are justified and described the shootings as assaults not only on Jewish Canadians but on the country’s social fabric. He pledged that the federal government would use every available tool to combat antisemitic violence, with federal agencies including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police assisting local investigators.

The announcement follows three recent shooting incidents targeting synagogues in the Toronto area, causing property damage but no injuries. The city has reported a sharp rise in antisemitic incidents since October 2023, with Jewish residents remaining the most frequently targeted group in reported hate crimes.