Jewish Institutions Hope to Raise $1 Million for Security

The focus on security for Jewish institutions has increased in the wake of the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting in October, which left 11 people dead and seven injured.

• By Jessica Davis
• Nov 09, 2018

Jewish Centers across Long Island are coming together in hopes of raising $1 million for security measures. The focus on security for Jewish institutions has increased in the wake of the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting in October, which left 11 people dead and seven injured.

Rabbi Yaakov Saacks of the Dix Hills Chai Center said the center has already taken steps to boost security. Some of the center’s windows have been replaced with shatterproof material, and visitors cannot enter the building unless they have a code or are buzzed in and allowed access. In addition, armed guards are present during Shabbat services and special events at the center.

In June, Gov. Cuomo announced a $2.1 million grant for Long Island Jewish schools and synagogues. The Chai Center received $50,000 in grant funding, but Rabbi Saacks said more funds will be required to strengthen the center’s security.

Twenty Chabad Lubavitch of Long Island institutions have come together to raise $1 million for security upgrades to 32 of its Jewish centers. According to Rabbi Saacks, the additional funding will go toward hiring more security guards and installing a double-door system.