Ontario Expands Security Measures to Jewish Summer Camps

June 3, 2026

$600,000 investment targets protections against hate-motivated incidents

BARRIE-INNISFIL — The Government of Ontario is strengthening protective measures against hate-motivated incidents by investing $600,000 in a targeted one-time funding stream for Jewish summer camps. Delivered through the Ontario Anti-Hate Security and Prevention (AHSP) grant, the investment will support community-led safety measures to safeguard campers and staff across the province.

“For young people across Ontario, summer camps are an opportunity to make new friends and learn new skills that will last a lifetime,” said Premier Doug Ford. “Like everyone in Ontario, our Jewish community deserves to live, worship and play in peace, and our government will continue to make investments to protect those rights.”

Statistics Canada’s national hate crime data consistently shows that Jewish communities are the single most targeted religious group in Canada, and Ontario accounts for the largest share of incidents. This dedicated one-time funding stream will help eligible organizations strengthen protections for campers, staff and volunteers in response to growing safety concerns.

“Summer camps are special places where children build friendships, develop confidence, and create lasting memories, and we are grateful to the many community organizations, camp staff, volunteers, and families who work together to help ensure that Jewish children can enjoy these experiences in a safe and welcoming environment,” said Andrea Khanjin, MPP for Barrie-Innisfil. “Our government takes incidents of hate seriously and is committed to strengthening public safety and supporting strong, inclusive communities across Ontario through ongoing initiatives such as the Safer Streets, Stronger Communities Act.”

The new funding will provide eligible organizations with the resources needed to strengthen security measures, including hiring security guards, upgrading facilities and installing surveillance cameras. These investments will help ensure children can continue to enjoy safe, secure and welcoming summer camp experiences across Ontario.

“As we approach the upcoming camp season, Ontario is taking decisive action to help protect Jewish youth and give parents greater peace of mind following antisemitic campaigns targeting Jewish summer camps,” said Graham McGregor, Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism. “We thank the UJA Federation of Greater Toronto, the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs and the Ontario Camps Association for their strong advocacy and partnership in supporting this important initiative.”

“At a time when antisemitism is reaching alarming levels across Ontario, this investment announced by Minister McGregor and the Government of Ontario is an important step in helping Jewish camps remain safe and welcoming spaces,” said Joy Levy, Executive Director of the Ontario Camps Association. “This support will help campers and staff continue to learn, connect and thrive throughout the summer.”

Through this new one-time funding stream, eligible Jewish summer camps can apply to receive up to $10,000 to enhance and implement safety and security measures before their peak operating season. The application portal will close on June 30, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. EST.

Quick Facts

  • Applications are reviewed on a first come, first served basis. Organizations can review eligibility criteria and apply at Ontario Anti-Hate Security and Prevention Grant.  
  • Since 2023-24, the Anti-Hate Security Prevention Grant Program has invested $58.75 million to prevent, address and combat hate in Ontario.
  • The Ontario government has allocated more than $2 million through the 2024-2026 Safer and Vital Communities Grant program. This funding will help 15 community-based, not-for-profit organizations and First Nations Chiefs and Band Councils with projects focused on preventing hate crimes.

Quotes

“Over the past two years, the Jewish community has experienced a significant rise in antisemitism, and the unfortunate reality is that Jewish summer camps across Ontario are forced to function in a heightened security environment. Like all Canadians, we deserve to be able to live our daily lives in peace and safety, which is why we are very grateful for the government’s recognition of the urgent need for enhanced security support for Jewish camps. This significant funding announcement for our camping community is an important step toward ensuring that camps can continue to provide safe, welcoming environments for children, staff, and their families.”

– Daniel Held

Chief Program Officer, UJA Federation of Greater Toronto

“Jewish camps are foundational spaces where children build community, identity and confidence, and they should be able to do so safely and without fear. CIJA has been actively advocating for expanded security support for camps through ongoing engagement with Minister McGregor and the Government of Ontario, and we appreciate the government’s leadership and recognition of the very real security pressures facing our community. This investment will help ensure that camps across Ontario can continue providing safe and supportive environments for children, staff, and families throughout the summer.”

– Michelle Stock

Vice President, Ontario, Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA)

“Jewish summer camps across Ontario are operating in an increasingly complex security environment. The Jewish Security Network works closely with many camps and community institutions to help ensure the safety and wellbeing of children, staff and families. We appreciate the government’s recognition of the urgent need for enhanced security support and for this significant investment. This funding will further strengthen security measures at camps across the province and help ensure that Jewish children can enjoy a safe, welcoming, and enriching summer experience.”

– Jevon Greenblatt

CEO, Jewish Security Network (JSN)

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