Nonprofit Security Grant results released

U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano announced grants of $19 million in the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) to non-profit organizations that are at high risk of a terrorist attack.

New York organizations fared particularly well, with 83 winners (71 in NYC) qualifying for $4,995,121 in federal funding to support target-hardening activities. New York applicants gleaned 30% of the grants (273). The number of New York winners grew by nearly 15% (compared to 2009) and the NY total grant amount increased by $380,000.

All applicants, whether successful or not, will be officially notified of their status by the the New York Office of Homeland Security (NY OHS).

We owe a special debt of gratitude to those dedicated public servants who actually administer the grants and answer our questions, especially Shelley Wahrlich, Steve Tierney and Valerie Bloomer. This program could not be successful without their dedication, patience and expertise. Thanks to Governor David Paterson, Acting NY Director of the Office of Homeland Security James Sherry and the entire NY Office of Homeland Security staff for their continuing, tremendous support for the Nonprofit Homeland Security Grant Program.

Coping with the heat and power outages

With the extreme heat affecting the New York City area energy consumption is, and will be, at record levels and ConEd  requested that customers conserve energy (check out these tips). Blackouts are already occurring throughout the city and more are inevitable. Many simple steps can help you prepare accordingly, both to keep people safe and to ensure that your important services continue.

• Be aware of others who are vulnerable to the heat and may need assistance (including older adults, people with chronic medical conditions, and those taking certain medications). Encourage them to use their air conditioner during a heat event. For additional information, visit http://www.advancewarningsystemnyc.org.
• Keep water available and move people to a cool place (find a nearby city-run cooling center at http://gis.nyc.gov/oem/cc/index.htm).
• Have flashlights and batteries available (don't forget to test regularly -- suggestion, when you change your clocks).
• Monitor radio or TV for up-to-date information ( have a wind up or battery operated radio/tv in case the power goes out).

Follow this link for more steps to help you and your organization through a power outage. Bonus: these steps are an easy precursor to more comprehensive emergency planning.