You have it backwards. They’re using old t-shirts to sew pillows. The same way some people use old shirts for quilting, or for window cleaning rags.

I feel like Salvation Army pillows are going to be gross and hard to clean - might pick up bed bugs. Thrifting the stuffing/pillow forms and sewing them into t-shirts makes something quick and comfortable.

Not if you're in any way queer. They don't help us.