Winter 2025 Newsletter
Federation Hosts Town Hall on Jewish Community Security
The Jewish Federation of Western Massachusetts, the leading Jewish organization in the region, held an important Town Hall event on February 11, 2025 at Temple Beth El in Springfield, in partnership with the Secure Community Network (SCN), the official homeland security and safety initiative of the organized Jewish community in North America. The event gave attendees an overview of the Federation’s new partnership with SCN, discussed the current state of Jewish community security, highlighted available training and programs, and addressed community safety concerns.
In response to the rising hate and violence targeting Jewish institutions, the Federation has committed to a multi-year partnership with SCN, investing $200,000 annually to strengthen security measures across Western Massachusetts. This partnership will be led by Andrew Hoffman, SCN’s Deputy Regional Security Advisor, and is designed to significantly enhance the safety and security of all who participate in Jewish life across the region.
This partnership adds the Federation to a growing network of Jewish communities across the country working with SCN to implement comprehensive security programs. These programs are based on an “all threats, all hazards” approach to preparedness, safety, and resiliency. SCN’s national operations provide direct access to its National Jewish Security Operations Command Center and Duty Desk, offering best-practice resources and support for policies, procedures, physical security, facility assessments, training, and incident response.
To report hate and violent incidents or threats towards the Jewish community, call 844.SCN.DESK (844.726.3375) or email DutyDesk@SecureCommunityNetwork.org.