$20m to American communities to prevent terrorism

The Department of Homeland Security has announced the awarding of 37 grants, totaling $20 million, under the Fiscal Year 2021 Targeted Violence and Terrorism Prevention (TVTP) Grant Program.

The program is managed by DHS's Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships (CP3) and is the only federal grant program dedicated to enhancing the capabilities of local communities to prevent targeted violence and terrorism.  This year’s grant program prioritised the prevention of domestic violent extremism, including through efforts to counter online radicalisation and mobilisation to violence.

It is hoped that the grants will help local communities strengthen online and in-person prevention efforts, including by addressing early-risk factors that can lead to radicalisation and violence.

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas said: “Domestic violent extremism and targeted violence pose significant and persistent threats to our homeland. Attacks on schools, houses of worship, workplaces, and public gatherings threaten Americans’ lives and inflict trauma on our communities.  The Targeted Violence and Terrorism Prevention Grant Program prioritises investments that empower and equip communities across our country to prevent acts of violence before they occur.”