COLUMBUS – Ohio Emergency Management Agency (Ohio EMA) has announced it has received nearly $21 million from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that will be used to promote preparedness across Ohio by providing funding to state and local governments, non-profit organizations, and first responders.
“Much of homeland security and emergency management are behind-the-scenes types of operations, but they contribute greatly to the safety and security of Ohioans,” Governor Mike DeWine said. “The four grant programs funded here play a critical role by supporting homeland security, emergency management, certain nonprofits, and first responders.”
“These funds will help Ohio prepare for all hazards, including both natural and man-made disasters,” said Ohio EMA Executive Director Sima Merick. “We will continue to be good stewards of these federal funds and ensure they are put to good use at the local and state level.”
Ohio EMA, which has already received local applications for these federal funds, will make disbursements focused in four grants areas:
- State Homeland Security Grant Program ($6,731,000);
- Emergency Management Performance Grant ($10,166,130);
- Non-Profit Security Grant Program ($2,366,979); and
- Operation Stonegarden ($1,633,974).
The State Homeland Security Grant Program focuses on homeland security, with a minimum 20 percent of the award addressing four federal priority areas: cybersecurity; soft targets and crowded places; information and intelligence sharing; and emerging threats.
The Emergency Management Performance Grants assist state and local emergency management agencies in enhancing and sustain all-hazards emergency management capabilities.
The NonProfit Security Grant Program supports target hardening and other physical security enhancements for nonprofit organizations at high-risk of a terrorist attack.
The Operation Stonegarden funds will be used to enhance cooperation and coordination among local, state and federal law enforcement agencies that provide security along Lake Erie, Ohio’s international border.