Author shares in holiday spirit

WITH the season of giving underway, a Ballarat creative has given her Christmas presents early for struggling families and children.

Author and illustrator Liv Lorkin visited community service organisation Cafs’ home office last week where she donated 150 copies of her children’s book Christmas in Ballarat.

“They were clearly so unbelievably ecstatic to receive that many books,” she said.

“It was really about trying to help as many families and children as possible, and to me, Cafs are the core providing service in Ballarat.”

With a background in SES volunteering, Lorkin said the festive tradition of giving is close to her heart.

“My mum, when she was younger, was in care for a period of time so Christmas to me growing up was very special,” she said.

“We didn’t have a lot of money growing up so gifts were few and far between but they were meaningful.

“Through the generosity of others, I’ve been able to achieve so much and I just wanted to give back so this was really important for me.”

Released in November 2021, the book is about the Wendouree Pals’ adventure throughout Ballarat to help Santa Claus.

Cafs manager of brand development Serena Eldridge accepted the donation.

“We were thrilled to receive copies of Liv’s book to provide to children in care,” she said.

“Not only because books are so important to support literacy from an early age, but this donation is even more special because of Liv’s contribution as the author.

“The story is about Ballarat and Liv’s family connection to out of home care.

“We have already started distributing the books to our foster care, kinship care and family support teams in time for Christmas.”