Quilters provide comfort to victims of Marshall Fire

RYAN PRYOR HOLDS UP HIS QUILT TOP HE MADE THAT HE IS DONATING TO THE VICTIMS OF THE MARSHALL FIRE. CREDIT: ADRIAN MICHAEL

Story and Photos By Adrian Michael

When the Marshall Fire devastated sections of Boulder and Louisville, the tragedy was instantly met with compassion from people in the area.

“When we heard about the fire, we felt helpless and felt like we were called to help,” said Jenn Dietz, the president of Arapahoe County Quilters. “Nothing helps trauma more than being surrounded by a strong community.”

Arapahoe County Quilters was founded in 1986 to bring quilters together to do charitable work within the community. They always look for opportunities to help those in need, and the Marshall Fire inspired them to action. Many members turned to Dietz, wondering how they could help, and she told them, “Start by utilizing your quilting talents.”

Working with local churches, ACQ has donated more than 100 quilts to the fire victims. They are also gathering other essential items to donate. “We’ll continue to collect and donate quilts as long as there is a need,” explained Dietz.

Englewood Colo-based Treelotta Fabric & Craft Studio is partnering with ACQ to serve as a donation center for the quilts. “We’re grateful for the opportunity to assist,” said the fabric store’s owner Teresa Barbagallo.

Quilts may not seem like the first priority for fire victims, but local quilters and members of ACQ Ryan Pryor and his wife Rose Rodriguez see a lot of value in these handmade items. “These quilts are going to people who lost pretty much everything,” explained Pryor. “They are potentially among the first items to help start the rebuilding process.”

According to Rodriguez, “Every person who receives a quilt is so appreciative! The quilts are extremely important, and there is a strong connection with a lot of energy in them.”

Upon hearing about the fire, ACQ member Sharon Osborne donated one of the quilts she made. “I wanted to help immediately, and I hope this brings some comfort for those who lost their homes.”

The Marshall Fire, which destroyed more than 1,000 homes and caused an estimated $500M in damages, has left the community with the daunting task of rebuilding. Dietz hopes to continue providing support to the victims of the fire and plans to reach as many people as she can.

“It would be awesome to give one quilt to every family” stated Dietz, “It may be a heavy lift, but every bit helps.”