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The Salvation Army in Denver partners with startup Parallel Sleep to provide pillows through a 1:1 donation model.
How much sleep are you getting?
More than a third of Americans report getting less than seven hours of sleep a day, according to the National Council on Aging, leading to cognitive impairment, emotional instability, heightened health risks and decreased daily performance.
For the estimated 600,000 individuals in the U.S. experiencing homelessness who lack consistent sleeping arrangements, these adverse side effects can hinder the path toward stability.
The Salvation Army in the Denver metro area partnered with Parallel Inc., a Denver-based e-commerce company, to supply people in its programs with new pillows.
Originally a Christmas giveaway, the initiative has evolved into a permanent partnership. For every pillow purchased, Parallel Inc. donates a pillow to The Salvation Army. The donations aim to enhance overall well-being by ensuring a restful night’s sleep, which is particularly beneficial for individuals in unstable living situations.
“Sleep is so important and yet not everyone has their own pillow,” said Erin Gaynier, Product Lead for Parallel Inc. “A good night’s sleep can lead to a better tomorrow.”
Gaynier coordinates giveaway events and donation drop-offs at Salvation Army shelters. She reported more than 1,000 pillows have been donated since the partnership began in December 2023.
“We learned that pillows are some of the most needed items in Denver-area shelters,” she said. “We realized that pillows are easy to distribute and can be utilized immediately.”
The pillows are compressed and packaged in bags with handles designed for easy distribution.
“It’s soft and it feels comfortable,” said Laura Larson, a guest at the Stone Creek converted hotel shelter in Denver. “It’s a blessing and I love the pillow.”
Gaynier said the distribution teams often encounter smiles and appreciation when they drop off donations, noting the pillows are designed to last over five years.
“We went the extra mile to ensure that we’re giving out a good quality item,” she said. “The pillow won’t go flat and is designed to last.”
Gaynier recalled one woman who teared up because it was the first pillow she ever owned. “She told us how much it meant to her and how thankful she was,” she said.
According to Jennifer Littleton, Director of The Salvation Army Lambuth Family Center, the shelter has received approximately 200 pillows for shelter guests this year.
“We’ve always struggled with pillows,” she said. “This collaboration has been incredibly helpful because it’s something individuals can bring to their next place to help them get settled in and be comfortable.”
Littleton said the partnership has enabled them to maintain a steady supply of pillows, ensuring that every occupant in the 20 available rooms at the shelter can access a new pillow.
“Individuals who have experienced homelessness have had nights without pillows or have had to use alternatives like backpacks or clothing,” she said, “so it’s great to see them receive something that will bring comfort.”
Intermountain Divisional Commander Major Nesan Kistan said partnerships like this enable The Salvation Army to further its mission.
“Community partners allow us to advance our reach,” Kistan said. “Working with Parallel Sleep has been a wonderful way to bring the gift of a good night’s rest to hundreds of individuals across Denver.”
Looking ahead, Gaynier said they’re working on bringing new products to the site that could replicate the donation model. “Partnering with The Salvation Army makes it all possible,” she said.
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