New London — Just weeks into a fundraiser to help the police force restore its K-9 unit, the city police union already is more than halfway to its fundraising goal.

The union set out in early September to raise $28,000 to help police purchase two German shepherds. It’s funding the police department couldn’t squeeze into its budget, especially given the tough budgetary times.

This week, the union surpassed $14,000 in donations, thanks to gifts from businesses and individuals residing everywhere from Old Saybrook to Pawcatuck.

"We are excited and humbled by the great support so far," union President Todd Lynch said in a news release. "We hope to continue this momentum and reach our goal in the next few weeks.”

In the release, the union announced it would be hosting a pasta dinner to benefit the cause on Oct. 11. The dinner is slated to start at 6 p.m. at the Italian Dramatic Club, 79 Goshen St.

Tickets are $25 per person and can be purchased at the police station or by contacting Chris Bunkley at cbunkley@ci.new-london.ct.us.

Those who wish to donate also can use the union’s official GoFundMe page or send a check payable to the New London Police Union K9 Fund to P.O. Box 135, New London, CT 06320.