Children’s Book, Chuck the Fire Truck, Supports Robb Family Trust
Children’s Book, Chuck the Fire Truck, Supports Robb Family Trust
Chuck the Fire Truck, a children’s book authored by Ken McLarnon was self-published in 2024 with funds raised being donated to the Robb Family Trust, a donor-advised fund that supports many initiatives and organizations in and around London, particularly around the arts.
Having struggled for many years with homelessness, alcohol, and addiction, Ken's life has had many ups and downs. Ken says his recovery from addiction is a testament to the incredible work done by social service organizations, and that an individual can accomplish something from even the most difficult of circumstances once they’re ready and able to accept help.
“I’m lucky to be alive. I’ve taken advantage of many services in Toronto and London including CMHA, shelter systems, 1-on-1 counselling, rehab programs, and all kinds of things. I’ve done so much to try and be the best self that I can possibly be and to give something back to the community,” Ken told us. “Once I was able to say no to my addictions, help was everywhere.”
After moving to London from Toronto in 2016, Ken was inspired to publish Chuck the Fire Truck following a dream in which he was reading it to his grandson. “I got up out of bed, wrote the title of the book down, and went back to bed. I got up in the morning and started putting pen to paper,” Ken told us.
The self-publishing process was a learning curve, but thanks to support from illustrator Allie-Marie Piggott and graphic designer Chris Simmons, the project was completed. Book sales have resulted in Ken donating over $3,000 to the Foundation.
Chuck the Fire Truck is available for purchase at Indigo and Amazon.
Left to Right: Jeff Robb (Robb Family Trust), Diane Silva (London Community Foundation), and Ken McLarnon (Author)
