Straightaway Tire & Auto has launched the Straightaway Assistance Fund for Employees (SAFE). The program is designed to offer financial relief to team members facing hardships. With direct grants of up to $5,000 and a 2:1 matching charitable grant program, Straightaway said the Assistance Fund shows the company’s commitment to its team.
The SAFE Fund offers financial assistance for various challenges, including housing emergencies, major vehicle repairs, out-of-pocket medical expenses, and education-related costs not covered by the employer.
“Our culture here at Straightaway Tire & Auto starts with the belief that our front-line team members are the most important people in this organization,” said John Teddy, chief executive officer of Straightaway. “If we do the right thing & take care of our people, they will in turn do the right thing and take care of our customers & communities.”
Straightaway Assistance Fund Provides Inclusive Access
The SAFE Fund is open to current employees, their family members, and former employees who left in good standing within the past year, Straightaway said. To ensure fair access, a board governs the application process. This board includes leaders from each of Straightaway’s five founding brands and members of the platform’s leadership team.
Funding for the program comes from three primary sources: Straightaway itself, contributions from vendor sponsors, and voluntary donations from employees. A full list of vendor sponsors is available on the SAFE Fund website, which also features a secure donation portal for external contributors.
Encouraging Vendor and Community Participation
“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 & president of the SAFE board. “As we launch the SAFE Fund, we’re especially highlighting to our vendor community. We’re incredibly thankful and encouraged by the support we’ve received thus far.”
The program’s charitable element includes a 2:1 match, up to $5,000, for employee-led fundraising efforts that directly benefit fellow team members.
