The Astoria Car Club and the NYPD Community Affairs Queens Outreach Division joined forces on Sunday, Dec. 8, to kick off the holiday season with their 10th annual Toy Run.
The event benefits children and families served by SCO Family of Services, one of the region’s largest providers of essential human services.
The celebration took place at the Bay Terrace Mall in Bayside. The mall’s central location and spacious layout made it an ideal venue for the community-focused event, which brought together families, volunteers, and supporters for a day filled with holiday cheer.
Children and families who attended were treated to a variety of attractions, starting with a dazzling car show featuring vehicles decked out in holiday lights and decorations. Santa Claus made a special appearance, greeting every child and posing for photos, while youth from SCO mentorship programs guided the children through a massive assortment of toys to help them find the perfect gift to take home.
This year’s event drew notable attendees, including New York State Assembly Member Michael Novakhov, who represents the 45th Assembly District, which includes portions of Sheepshead Bay, Midwood, Manhattan Beach, Gravesend, and Brighton Beach in Brooklyn. Novakhov, known for his strong advocacy for families and community programs, presented certificates of recognition to SCO Family of Services and the event’s hosts. He praised the Toy Run for its impact on the community and its ability to bring holiday cheer to families who need it most.
The Toy Run, which began in 2015, was founded by Anthony Primiani, a member of the Astoria Car Club, and his wife, Elena Scarlelli. Their goal was to combine their love of cars with their desire to give back to families who may be facing difficult times during the holidays. Over the past decade, the event has grown significantly, thanks to the support of local organizations and businesses, including 360 Motorsports, Teggy’s Elite Detailing, Deluxe Detailing, and Team Auto Body.
King Souvlaki, a beloved Queens food vendor with locations in Astoria and Bayside, generously donated meals for the children at this year’s event.
SCO Family of Services, the beneficiary of the event, has been a cornerstone of support for New York City and Long Island communities for more than 125 years. The organization provides services ranging from early childhood education to support for individuals with special needs, helping to build stronger families and brighter futures.
As the Toy Run celebrated its 10th anniversary, it stood as a testament to the power of community and the generosity of local organizations. The event not only brought smiles to children’s faces but also highlighted the importance of giving back during the holiday season.
For more information about SCO Family of Services and how to get involved, visit sco.org. To learn more about events at the Bay Terrace Mall, visit bayterrace.com.
