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The Suffolk Radio Control Club held its annual “Toys for Tots-Fun Fly” event on Oct. 18 at the Hampton Roads RC Flying Field in Suffolk.  The event raised $1,400 and collected over 120 toys for the Salvation Army’s “Toys for Tots” program. 

The club partnered with prominent hobby vendors like Horizon Hobby, LLC to procure donations for raffle prizes, which helped to attract attendees and increase revenue. The event also featured a live demonstration by the Suffolk Skydiving Club, whose members carried donated toys during their jump. 

Attendees paid a $10 landing fee or donated a toy to participate. The event drew approximately 70 people. 

Karen Twinney of the Salvation Army emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “Every child deserves to have an amazing Christmas and something under the tree. Most of these kids know their parents are struggling, they understand that there may not be something under the tree, that make it so much sweeter to know that with the help of others we are able to be part of their Christmas story and the joy of the season.” 

Unlike larger areas in the region, Suffolk does not have a dedicated US Marine Corps arm to assist with the Salvation Army’s efforts.

The Suffolk Radio Control Club’s annual “Toys for Tots-Fun Fly,” which has been running for over 20 years, aims to alleviate the financial burden on families and spread holiday cheer. The club’s efforts, through monetary and toy donations, help ensure that children in need experience the joy of Christmas. The event fosters a sense of community and camaraderie within the model aviation hobby.

Planning for the 2025 event is underway.