LA PORTE COUNTY, Ind. -- The Multi-Agency Academic Coordinator Foundation announced that nine local police law enforcement agencies will be receiving a total of $50,000 from the S50 K9 Fund to enhance training and support of their K9 units. 

"Nearly 50 working K9s and an additional 50 search and rescue dogs serve communities across Northwest Indiana every day," said Celina Weatherwax, President and CEO of the MAAC Foundation.

"We are proud to award grants to nine police departments through the S50 K9 Fund which is made possible through the generosity of the Dean and Barbara White Family Foundation.

The S50 K9 Fund is named in honor of the late Valparaiso Police Department Sergeant Steve Kobitz, who served with distinction under badge number 50.

The fund recognizes his dedication to public safety and ensures that K9 units receive the essential resources they need for effective training and support.

"This will provide vital support to K9 handlers by ensuring access to advanced training and essential resources," Weatherwax. "This investment enhances public safety and strengthens the bond between law enforcement and the communities they serve."

The following departments have been awarded a combined $50,000 in funding:

• Cedar Lake Police Department
• Crown Point Police Department
• Hammond Police Department
• Jasper County Sherriff’s Office
• Lake Station Police Department
• LaPorte Police Department
• Porter County Sheriff's Office
• St. John Police Department
• Valpo K9 Association

The S50 K9 Fund supports the MAAC Foundation’s mission to create "a safer, stronger community by providing comprehensive training opportunities for first responders."

"This fund enhances K9 programs across Lake, Porter, LaPorte, Newton, Jasper, and Starke Counties, helping to expand the number of well-equipped and highly trained K9 units serving the region," a MAAC spokesperson said.