YOUNGSTOWN Youngstown Police Department K9 Max has received a donated bullet and stab-protective vest, fulfilling a promise made months ago through the efforts of a local children's fundraiser. The department announced the armor's arrival on Monday through social media.

The custom-fitted body armor was provided by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting law enforcement dogs across the United States. The vest’s sponsorship came from Aunt Mimi’s Lemonade Stand, a local effort started by children Jordan and Annalise in honor of their late aunt.

In July, the Youngstown Police Department announced that Max was slated to receive body armor. The arrival of the vest ensures the dog can work with an increased level of protection.

Additionally, Youngstown State University Police Department K9 Barkley also received a vest from Vested Interest in K9s. The University also announced in July that Barkley was slated to receive his vest, which arrived in October.

Barkley's vest is embroidered with the words, "In memory of Aunt Mimi."

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provides protective vests and other assistance to law enforcement canines. The organization has supplied over 6,225 vests, with a total value of approximately $6.9 million, to dogs in all 50 states through private and corporate donations. The vests are U.S.-made, National Institute of Justice certified, and come with a five-year warranty.

The charitable organization’s program is open to working dogs who are at least 20 months old and certified with a law enforcement agency.

The money raised by Aunt Mimi’s Lemonade Stand, which sponsored Max, is also contributing to the purchase of vests for five other K9s, highlighting a regional community effort to support police dogs.