Henrico groups receive Homeland Security funds

The Virginia Department of Emergency Management announced recently the allocation of more than $11.5 million through various federal grant programs to enhance emergency preparedness and security throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia.  The Homeland Security Grant Program funds will be administered by VDEM to support a wide array of emergency preparedness and security operations, equipment replacement, training planning and exercise programs by local governments and other entities.

Included in the competitive grants awarded to Henrico agencies were projects expanding Henrico Police's Surveillance Search and Rescue ($216,935), supporting Community Emergency Response Teams ($16,000), and enhancing the Dive Team Surface Supply System ($60,000). Other competitive grants included $26,240 for Towable Side and Vehicle Scan Sonar, and $35,290 to the Henrico County Fire Division for Rescue Support System for Structural Stabilization.  Under non-competitive grants, the Henrico County Hazardous Materials Team was awarded $104,449.

Among the Henrico organizations to receive funds through the Nonprofit Security Grant Program were the Jewish Community Center of Richmond ($150,000) and Beth Sholom Home of Virginia ($150,000).  Nonprofit Security Grants are used to fund physical security enhancements for eligible nonprofits that are at high risk of terrorist attack in Virginia.