Growing up in the remote bush of Skwentna, Alaska, Esther Sanderlin learned early that life in the wilderness came with challenges. With no road access and limited resources, families like hers often faced long stretches of isolation during the harsh freeze-up season. It was a time when supplies were scarce, and even small gestures of kindness could have an outsized impact.

Esther remembers the joy of seeing a plane overhead, piloted by family friend Kenny Hughes, who would air-drop supplies to neighbors in need. "I just remember it being so exciting and fun," Esther shared. "One time, he dropped a newspaper with a pack of gum inside. For a kid who couldn't just go to the store, that pack of gum meant the world to me."

Those childhood experiences stayed with her, shaping a unique passion for giving back to the communities she once called home.

Family photo courtesy of Esther Sanderlin-Keim.

A Squirrel Split Three Ways Doesn't Go Very Far

Fast-forward to today and Esther has taken on the mantle of spreading holiday joy, this time from the cockpit of her own plane. For the past three years, she has been flying frozen turkeys to families living off the grid in the Matanuska Valley and West Susitna Valley. After hearing one of her neighbors relent that "a squirrel doesn't split three ways very far for dinner," she decided to drop him a turkey.

"I was visiting a neighbor, and hearing about their challenges reminded me of how much it meant when Kenny used to drop supplies for us," Esther said. "I decided to air-drop a turkey to them, and then I thought, why stop there? I'll drop one to all the families I can find out here."

Esther has delivered around 40 turkeys to remote locations this year, reaching places like Upper Yentna River, Shell Lake, and Twentymile Slough. Working with her pilot, Heidi, they meticulously plan each drop, circling homes until they see someone outside. Then, with fellow pilots like Heidi Hastings flying low and slow, Esther releases her "turkey bombs," ensuring they land safely and away from people or property. 

Her mission has grown beyond turkeys, too. She includes special surprises like ice cream or candy for families with children—small luxuries that mean so much in areas where access to stores is limited.

Turkey bombing a remote strip in Alaska.

A Vision for the Future

Esther dreams of expanding her efforts into a nonprofit organization, reaching even more families across Alaska. She envisions a network of pilots and volunteers delivering turkeys, other essentials, and maybe even gifts like stuffed animals for children. 

"My heart is still out there in the bush," Esther explained. "I want to reach more villages and rural places, but it's a challenge. You have to know someone who knows someone, and you need resources—more pilots, more supplies." 

Despite these challenges, Esther is determined to keep growing her mission. For now, she's focusing on the areas she knows best, bringing warmth and joy to the communities that helped shape her.

You can contact Esther through the Alaska Turkey Drop Facebook page to get involved or request a turkey drop. Together, we can ensure that even the most remote corners of Alaska feel a little less isolated and a lot more loved this holiday season.