Straightaway Tire & Auto, an independent automotive repair chain with over 65 locations across seven states, has launched the Straightaway Assistance Fund for Employees (SAFE) to provide financial support to team members facing unexpected hardships. This includes housing emergencies, major vehicle repairs, medical expenses and educational pursuits not covered by employer funding.
The initiative offers direct grants of as much as $5,000.
Current employees, their family members and former employees who left in good standing within the past 12 months can apply for assistance.
Funding for the program comes from a combination of Straightaway, vendor sponsorships and voluntary employee donations. And, the company welcomes donations from interested parties.
The program also features a 2:1 match (up to $5,000) for employee-led fundraising efforts supporting team members in need.
“We created the SAFE Foundation to invite participation from a wide range of partners who share our belief that supporting people during times of hardship is simply the right thing to do,” said Cameron Chernikow, chief customer officer and president of the SAFE board. “As we launch the SAFE Fund, we’re especially highlighting to our vendor community in particular how meaningful this initiative is to us and that this is an important part of doing business with Straightaway, and we’re incredibly thankful and encouraged by the support we’ve received thus far.”
