A fundraiser to support the Black Diamond Police Department’s K-9 unit is scheduled for 6 to 8 p.m. Sept. 11 at the Eagles Hall, 32618 Railroad Ave., in Black Diamond.

The Black Diamond Police Department is able to maintain a K-9 team because of donations from citizens and organizations. These funds are vital to the program and pay for food, veterinary services, training, equipment and all other K-9 related expenses.

“The community is being strongly affected by a senseless drug epidemic,” according to a press release issued by the Black Diamond Police Department. “With the community’s monetary assistance, we can provide our children with the opportunity to grow-up without the negative influence of illegal drugs. The survival of the K-9 program is essential to our fight against drugs. With your help, the team will continue to find drugs, arrest drug dealers, educate the public and give our children a safer place to call home.”

All proceeds from the Sept. 11 baked potato bar dinner will be donated to the Black Diamond K-9 program. The cost is $7 per person.

Officer Kris Chatterson and K-9 Sabre will be present at the benefit dinner and a demonstration will be provided for all who attend. Chatterson will speak to the audience about how his four-legged partner is able to sniff out illegal drugs and why the K-9 program is essential to the police department and the community.