Fresno Islamic center receives state funding for security and safety

Fresno’s Islamic center is one of several nonprofits throughout the Central Valley to receive hundreds of thousands of dollars in state money to enhance security and safety. 

Wednesday, the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) awarded $39 million to 193 nonprofit and faith-based organizations throughout the state. 

The big picture: The Sierra Community Center, located in northwest Fresno and also known as Masjid Badr, provides a safe and peaceful place for Muslims to pray, learn and socialize. 

• According to its website, the Sierra Community Center offers programs and services such as Quran classes, youth activities and community events to serve the needs of the community and promote the values of Islam. 

• The center will receive $250,000 from the state. 

Driving the news: Cal OES reviewed 1,254 applications for a total of $255 million from nonprofits throughout California, before deciding on the 193 groups that received the awards. 

• According to the state, possible security enhancements that the money will be used for include reinforced doors, gates, high-intensity lighting and access control systems and inspection and screening systems. 

• Funds were awarded through a competitive grant process that particularly targeted organizations focused on race, religious affiliation, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability and immigration status. 

Elsewhere in the Valley: Including the Sierra Community Center, six nonprofit organizations in the Central Valley were awarded state funding from Cal OES. 

• In San Joaquin County, Tracy’s Gurdwara Gur Nanak Parkash and the Deshmesh Darbar Sikh Temple of Lodi and Stockton each received $250,000. 

• The Islamic Center of Modesto received $131,584. 

• The other two groups are located in Bakersfield and each received $250,000: Saint Demiana Coptic Orthodox Church and St. John’s Lutheran Church of Bakersfield. 

What they’re saying: “These important security investments will help protect diverse communities across the state from acts of violence and hate,” said Gov. Gavin Newsom. “Regardless of background, faith, or identity, every Californian deserves safety and security.”