Dozens came together on Saturday to make Valentine’s day cards for U.S. troops deployed overseas as part of Prayer Angels for the Military’s “Hearts for Heroes” event.

The free event, held on Saturday, Feb. 13,  allowed Santa Clarita residents to give thanks to deployed troops, veterans, firefighters and sheriff’s deputies by making cards that would be included in care packages.

“When our soldiers open up cards,” Ann Klamer, the lead volunteer with Prayer Angels for the Military, said, “it makes them pretty happy.”

Cards were gathered up and some were distributed to the Santa Clarita Sheriff’s Station and to several fire department stations in the Santa Clarita valley.

“A lot of people forget we still have deployed troops,” said Suzon Gerstel, president of Prayer Angels for the Military. “Above everything else we send them, the most important thing is getting a card.”

Related Story: Volunteers Make Military Care Packages For Santa Clarita’s Prayer Angels For The Military

As well, representatives from the Los Angeles County Fire Department, the Young Marines and the Santa Clarita Sheriff’s station attended the event to speak with those making cards.

“We go to the stations to bring thank you cards,” said Gersel. “It’s nice to be thanked.”

This is the 12th year that the Hearts for Heroes event has been held, and a large number of children attended.

Gersel estimated that close to 300 children were making cards, with a majority coming from Albert Einstein Academy.

“We welcome anybody,” said Klamer, “but (Albert Einstein Academy) seems to be the most active school locally.”

However, she said, the event also helped the children find a creative outlet to give thanks.

“I think it brightens up the children,” said Klamer. “It’s a family activity.”