From Coats to Connection: HaystackID’s Remote Workforce Unites to Give Back to Our Local Communities

As the cold season approaches, HaystackID employees banded together with a simple goal: to keep as many people warm as possible this winter. What began as a conversation between Sarah Pons, VP of Business Development, and Daniel Pelc, Director of Client Solutions and Integration, at one of HaystackID’s affinity group meetings quickly evolved into a company-wide initiative: a coat drive that would not only bring much-needed warmth to those in need but also unite our remote workforce in a common purpose.

“For a company that operates remotely, this coat drive was an incredible opportunity to come together and make a tangible impact,” Sarah shared. “I’m so proud of our team and their enthusiasm for this project, which truly embodies the spirit of HaystackID.”

A Goal of 50 Coats Leads to 220 Donations

When the drive kicked off, the goal was to collect and donate 50 coats, a target that seemed both ambitious and achievable. However, the response from our employees was overwhelming. Team members across the U.S. contributed, donating over 100 coats. HaystackID’s corporate office matched the effort by donating 89 brand-new coats, plus additional winter essentials like hats, gloves, and neck gaiters. Together, the team donated an impressive 220 coats to various organizations nationwide.

Even our international team members joined in. A team member in Dublin, Ireland, donated 12 coats to a local homeless shelter that supports families with children, further extending the initiative’s reach and impact. The coats went to shelters and charitable organizations in cities from Seattle to Washington, D.C., and beyond.

Reflecting on the corporate contribution, Daniel said, “Thanks to HaystackID’s generosity, we could purchase winter essentials on Amazon Prime Day and send them to shelters in Minneapolis-St. Paul. Knowing these items could be the difference between life and death for some of the unhoused community members is incredibly humbling.”

A Powerful Reminder: Addressing Hypothermia in the Unhoused Community

Every winter, estimates find that hypothermia claims the lives of nearly 700 unhoused people across the United States, underscoring the urgent need for warm clothing and shelter during colder months. Even in typically mild climates like Los Angeles, hypothermia poses a threat; in 2021 alone, 14 people died from exposure to the cold. For HaystackID’s team, the coat drive was more than an act of charity—it was an effort to contribute to life-saving change.

HaystackID CEO Hal Brooks reflected on the success of the drive: “We are blessed to be able to give back to those in need and will continue to do so through the efforts of our incredible people here. This coat drive reflects what HaystackID stands for—showing up for our communities and working together to make a difference beyond the workplace.”

Building a Culture of Giving at HaystackID

At HaystackID, corporate responsibility is more than a policy; it’s woven into the fabric of our culture. As part of our Inspire Greater initiative—a corporate commitment to fostering positive change in our communities—we encourage our employees to make a difference in their communities and contribute to a more compassionate world. For Sarah and Daniel, leading this initiative offered more than just an opportunity to donate—it allowed them to actively engage the entire company in a shared purpose.

“Every update we shared with the team generated even more excitement and generosity,” said Sarah. “I can’t thank our HaystackID family enough for coming together and exceeding our expectations. This was about more than reaching a number; it was about helping those in need.”

The generosity extended beyond just coats. HaystackID employees also contributed winter hats, gloves, and even gaiters, filling a critical need for shelters nationwide. Daniel credits his wife, Rachel, for helping with the logistics: “Rachel was the brains behind the operation, coordinating everything from sourcing items to arranging deliveries. Her support and dedication were invaluable.”

Continuing the Tradition of Giving

The coat drive may have ended, but HaystackID’s commitment to giving back continues. As we look toward the winter season, plans are underway for a toy drive in December and a blood drive in February. These initiatives are part of a larger effort to cultivate a spirit of service and generosity within our company.

As HaystackID grows, so does our dedication to building meaningful connections with our communities. In a remote work environment, initiatives like the coat drive remind us that we are united not only by our work but also by shared values and a commitment to making a difference. As we look forward, we’re excited to continue inspiring each other and our communities through acts of kindness and service.

“Our coat drive demonstrated what’s possible when we come together for a cause. I’m grateful to be part of a team that truly cares and is always ready to help those in need,” Sarah said. “This drive was just the beginning—we’re only getting started.”