COLUMBUS, Ohio (Sept. 2, 2025) — Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jim Tressel are encouraging Ohio schools, colleges, and houses of worship to take advantage of state programs designed to strengthen safety and security.
“We’ve made it a priority in this administration to offer a broad range of public safety support to our local communities, and these programs are a perfect example of this commitment,” said DeWine. “Our schools and churches can never be too safe, and I encourage leaders to take advantage of these grant programs and free services.”
Lt. Governor Tressel emphasized that each institution has unique needs: “From our college campuses to our elementary schools and religious institutions, it’s important that we always strive to create a safe environment. These programs are tailored to offer individualized support.”
Among the key initiatives:
- Ohio Security Grant Program – $8.5 million available this fiscal year for nonprofits, houses of worship, private schools, and preschools to make eligible security upgrades. Applications open Sept. 5.
- School Safety and Security Grant Program – Schools can apply for up to $40,000 every three years to improve safety and reduce injuries or illnesses tied to educational services.
- Campus Security Support Grant – $4 million available this fall for Ohio colleges and universities to support student organizations focused on campus safety.
- Campus Student Safety Grant – $1 million available in FY2026 and FY2027 to enhance security measures at public and private higher education institutions.
- Ohio School Safety Center (OSSC) – Free services including regional support officers, vulnerability assessments, intelligence analysis, training, and education for school staff.
- Safer Ohio School Tip Line (844-SaferOH) – A free, anonymous tip line allowing students and adults to report threats by call, text, webform, or mobile app, available 24/7.
The OSSC, created by DeWine in 2019, provides comprehensive assistance to Ohio K-12 schools, higher education institutions, and first responders in preventing and responding to violence and other safety threats.
For more details on specific programs and applications, leaders are encouraged to visit the Ohio School Safety Center and related agency webpages.
