Victor O. Schinnerer & Co., based in Chevy Chase, Md., has a new kidnap and ransom program for houses of worship.

Schinnerer’s Houses of Worship program is available to churches and religious organizations of any size or denomination. Insured persons can include directors, officers, employees, volunteers, mission attendees, students, chaperones, consultants and independent contractors.

“Houses of worship are not immune to threats of violence. Both domestically and internationally, religious organizations are experiencing an increase in cases of kidnap and extortion – especially those that do work overseas while on world missions or attending conferences,” said Sarah Katz, assistant vice president of Schinnerer’s Kidnap & Ransom program, in a statement.

The policy provides coverage for acts of violence resulting in serious death or injury; threats of violence or damage to property; extortion threats; express kidnap/kidnap for ransom; travel evacuations; and for the disappearance of members from a church-sponsored activity.

In addition to houses of worship, Schinnerer’s Kidnap & Ransom program provides coverage for other industries and high-net worth individuals.

Schinnerer serves more than 46,000 policyholders in various specialty industries through independent agents and brokers.