DENVER, Colo. -- When Colorado firefighters and paramedics rush to an emergency, they carry an important piece of equipment that is hand made: Snuggle Quilts.

These quilts are put together with loving care by the volunteer group Firehouse Quilts of Colorado before shipping them to area fire departments.

Firefighters take the quilts with them and use them to comfort those who have been involved a accident, fire, or domestic violence.

“They are just about 45-inches square. That is what we try to keep them. Just big enough to wrap around a good-sized kid,” said Patricia Dusty Darrah.

Darrah saw a need for the quilts and started the nonprofit organization in the summer of 2003.

“She just gives. She just puts her heart and soul into this group and she works non-stop,” said Barbara Dean, who volunteers at the organization.

“It’s heart-warming to do something, especially for children who have gone through some traumatic event in their life,” said Darrah.

Darrah’s hard work has meant Firehouse Quilts of Colorado donates close to 600 quilts a year.

Of course, she can’t do it alone. The group has about two dozen regular volunteers who meet twice a month to make it happen.

“It feels better for me to make a quilt and give it away and know someone is going to have that kind of response to it than to put on my wall or hang it over my couch,” said Dean.

Dusty was recognized as a 7Everyday Hero for her dedication to the community.

Congratulations Dusty.