Veronika Scott, a 22-year-old designer, is credited with saving lives with the invention of “Element S Coat,” a self-heated and waterproof coat that transforms into a sleeping bag at night. The coats have been distributed for free to 22,000 homeless Detroit residents through her organization The Empowerment Plan.

Late last fall, Scott began working with Steelcase Inc. to obtain discarded fabric to use as lining for her coats made of Tyvek and wool. So far, the Kentwood office furniture maker has provided 6,000 yards – the equivalent of 3.5 miles.

Read more at How a 22-year-old designer uses Steelcase’s discarded fabric to help Detroit’s homeless and watch the TEDx talk below.