A fundraiser for a Ballarat-based program that aims to put a smile on the faces of sick children and their families will be hosted later this month.
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Twin Hearts founder and president, Kelly-Louise Austin, worked for various not-for-profit organisations overseas for more than a decade.
But several years ago she decided to join her passion of raising funds for organisations overseas, such as in Africa, as well as charities in need in Ballarat.
From there, the idea of Twin Hearts was born.
Since starting in 2017, the Ballarat-based charity has hosted a range of fundraising events- from trivia and movie days to the big Gala Ball hosted in partnership with Love Your Sister in 2019, raising more than $10,000 for the cause.
Despite the difficulties of COVID restrictions in 2020, the charity continued to fundraise through raffles - raising enough to make a 'healthy donation' to Ballarat's Shower Bus.
Early this year those behind the charity discussed where their support would be directed in the year ahead, with Cops N Kids mentioned.
As such, much work has been put in behind the scenes to organise a Christmas in July themed fundraiser for the program at the end of July.
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The fundraiser will include a festive afternoon tea, live music from Ballarat musician Geoff Warner and other entertainment.
Half of the proceeds from ticket sales and all funds raised from games and raffles hosted on the day will be donated to Cops N Kids.
"We hope to make a really considerable donation," Ms Austin said.
Meanwhile, the other half of funds made from ticket sales will be used to purchase books for a school in Tanzania.
"We tend to look for causes that don't get a lot or any funding from anywhere else - where a small amount of money makes a big difference," secretary of Twin Hearts, Jackie Warner, said.
Everything is much appreciated. It will all go into running the camps for the kids.
- Cops N Kids president, Sergeant Dave Collins
The Cops N Kids program, started in Ballarat, has been running for more than 25 years.
It hosts two camps each year. The first is in February and sees about 25 children from Ballarat and surrounds - who have endured trauma or with sick family members at home - enjoy a fun-filled weekend on the coast.
Then in November, up to 70 children with life-threatening illnesses and their families travel from all over the state for four days of fun - from rides in police cars to a trip on the paddle steamer on Lake Wendouree.
Related coverage: 'Had an absolute ball': Children enjoy weekend away at Cops N Kids camp
Related coverage: 'Very much appreciated': Cops N Kids receives donation
Cops N Kids president, Sergeant Dave Collins, said the group appreciated all support from the community.
"We don't get any funding so we rely on support from the community. Everything is much appreciated.
"It will all go into running the camps for the kids."
Organisers are currently planning for the November camp, in the hope it can go ahead despite the pandemic.
The event will be hosted on July 24. Tickets are $20 and are available at: www.twinhearts.org.au
