Since October 7, 2023, antisemitism has risen by 30%. In response, the Jewish Federation security team, in collaboration with law enforcement and community leaders, has taken significant steps to address the increased threat.

One of the key initiatives undertaken by the Jewish Federation to enhance safety in Pittsburgh is the installation of BluePoint systems.

BluePoint is an Emergency Alert System that notifies law enforcement and first responders instantly of an active threat, prompting an immediate response. Simultaneously, it alerts the occupants within the building where the potential emergency may be unfolding. It also notifies a network of other local Jewish organizations for their awareness. Immediate police notification combined with community-wide communication are vital elements in a successful crisis response to an active threat.

Currently, BluePoint systems are installed in 22 local Jewish organizations in Pittsburgh. The Federation security team intends to expand the network to include five more locations by January 31, 2025.

The Jewish Federation has secured $2.9 million in state and federal grant funds for 2023-24 to cover the cost of BluePoint installation as well as other security enhancements.

BluePoint alert systems are just one part of a comprehensive security strategy. It's crucial for organizational leaders, staff and community members to know how to respond in emergency situations. To this end, the Federation has conducted over 425 trainings and drills, complementing BluePoint installations and other site-specific security enhancements.

Chris DeMarco, Security Chair of Congregation Emanu-El Israel, expresses his gratitude for the Federation's support:

"I just want to say thank you and good blessings to you as the High Holy Days really get underway. Congregation Emanu-El Israel's security committee and I especially are grateful for all the help and support you've given us at CEI and the Pittsburgh Jewish community at large. I know if I have a security-related issue I can reach out to you and the Federation and that's invaluable. I wish you well during these turbulent times.”

~Chris DeMarco, Security Chair - CEI

To learn more about the activation of BluePoint system, watch the 13-minute refresher course below. To schedule an on-site training or drill, contact Erin Fagan at efagan@jfedpgh.org.

Thanks to an active, forward-thinking Federation and an increasingly trained community, Jewish Pittsburgh’s safe spaces grow larger every day. It remains a top priority for the Federation to continue providing safe environments for the Jewish community to convene, worship, learn and live free from harm.