The Knights of Columbus in the Diocese of Toledo are spearheading fundraising efforts to help Heartbeat of Toledo purchase an ultrasound machine.

Local councils are collecting donations and sponsoring special events to meet their goal of raising $13,000 for the machine, which would allow the crisis pregnancy support center to offer ultrasounds to clients facing unplanned pregnancies. Funds raised locally are to be matched by the Knights of Columbus Culture of Life Fund.

St. Joseph Council 11370 is hosting a pancake breakfast Sept. 19, 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Maumee St. Joseph Community Center. The cost is $5 for all-you-can-eat pancakes and sausage, and representatives will be on hand to explain the Ultrasound Project and its importance in saving lives of the unborn.

The Greater Toledo Area Chapter Knights of Columbus is sponsoring a barbecue chicken dinner Sept. 26, 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at West Toledo Council, 4256 Secor Rd. Donation is $9 for adults and $6 for children under age 12, and all proceeds benefit the Ultrasound Project.

Tickets are available from any of the Toledo Knights of Columbus councils, or call Bob Boyer at 419-893-4028.

Donations can also be made by check to the K of C Ultrasound Project and sent to Bob Boyer, 1744 Cambridge Park East, Maumee, OH 43547.