How to Apply

To receive a Stanton K9 Foundation Unit Establishment grant, the town must complete a short application process. See steps below.

  1. The town must submit two signed Letters of Support — one from the chief of police and one from the chief administrative officer of the town. The Foundation’s program officer will acknowledge receipt within three business days.

  2. The police department must complete the short Application Document that will be reviewed by the Foundation for approval. The Foundation will review within 10 business days of receipt.

  3. Following approval of an application, the department will begin the interview process to select a K9 handler using departmental practices for assigning specialty positions.

  4. The department will schedule a confirmation interview with the Foundation's consulting K9 trainer.

  5. The town’s chief administrative officer will complete the Grant Agreement before the grant can be released. At this stage the department should work with the Town Treasurer’s office to establish a separate fund for the exclusive use of the K9 program where the grant monies will be deposited. The department's chief and handler should also read this document carefully, as it describes various policies and reporting requirements.

  6. Chief McLaughlin will send a fully executed agreement along with the check for the full grant amount ($32,000) six to eight weeks before patrol school begins.

  7. Each unit is required to participate in one secondary training in either narcotics or explosives. These grants are distributed after the Foundation receives the certificate for successful completion from the department.

Total elapsed time for the entire application process can be as little as three weeks. Be sure to confirm any town related deadlines with the Foundation. We review applications on a rolling basis.