YOUNGSTOWN - Heightened security measures are coming to the Youngstown Area Jewish Federation.

This is thanks to a multi-million dollar grant that can be used to benefit the entire community.

The money is through a program under the Jewish Federations of North America meant to combat violence across the board. 

"Because of activities increasing...anti-semitism...violence," Youngstown Area Jewish Federation CEO Andrew Lipkin said, "The other day, it was just another shooting on the Michigan State University campus."

Lipkin said the new money will be used to hire new security guards to double down on safety for gatherings in synagogues of Youngstown, on top of enhanced protection for all locations of the Youngstown Area Fewish Federation, such as senior living and learning centers.

"We feel fairly secure, but it comes at a cost," Nancy Burnett, Advisory Board Chair said, "It's very expensive to provide all those methods of securing the building."

The funds also pave way for "vulnerability assessments" not only for synagogues but any church in the area, according to Lipkin. This assesses potential risks in the layout of a building, looking at factors such as how many entrances and exits there are, then provides ways to implement stronger safety protocols. 

"Doors and locks... and bulletproof windows," he said, "We'll be able to help put that together for you to do that assessment, that is something for many places that costs several thousands of dollars."

The Youngstown Area Jewish Federation said they will also be providing free training to the general public, including active-shooter response.