A new philanthropic apparel campaign spearheaded by The Scrub Shoppe, in collaboration with M Squared Marketing, aims to bring awareness and financial support to Just People, a local nonprofit that serves individuals experiencing homelessness.
The effort centers on the sale of apparel featuring a silhouette of Kentucky with the message “Love Thy Neighbor.” All profits from each purchase will go directly toward Just People’s outreach efforts — restocking supply shelves, filling bags with essential items, and providing clothing to those in need.
“It’s heartbreaking,” said Josh Stephens, owner of The Scrub Shoppe. “I’ve lived in big cities like Chicago and L.A., and the level of desperation we’re seeing here is very real. This is a way we can help — not to solve the problem, but to bring hope and meet immediate needs.”
Stephens said the initiative grew from a long-standing relationship with Dave Fogle, also known as “Computer Dave,” who co-leads Just People alongside his wife. The Scrub Shoppe neighbors Fogle’s computer repair operation.
What began as helping source jackets or sweatshirts turned into something more after Stephens began volunteering on-site at Tent City and other homeless encampments around Owensboro with Fogle.
“I’ve stood in the pouring rain with people using trash bags as ponchos, asking Dave to pray with them before getting breakfast,” Stephens said. “It makes you rethink everything. People are thrilled to receive a 30-year-old suitcase with a broken wheel, just because now they can drag their belongings instead of carrying them.”
Tyler Mayfield of M Squared Marketing said their company didn’t hesitate to get involved.
“M Squared Marketing has a longstanding relationship with Josh and The Scrub Shoppe. While both companies hold deep-rooted Christian values, Josh reached out to us to see if we wanted to get involved with a passion project to aid the community. It was a no-brainer for M Squared,” Mayfield said.
Mayfield said M Squared’s involvement began with naming the mission: Love Thy Neighbor.
“We chose the name not only for its Christian values, but to showcase that regardless of denomination, loving your neighbor is what humanity is meant to do,” he said. “All three of our organizations decided on this design to pay tribute to Kentucky and the mentality we should have as a community. From there, we are helping by getting other businesses involved and spreading the mission.”
The apparel line includes short- and long-sleeve T-shirts, crewnecks, hoodies, and youth options, all built around the core “Love Thy Neighbor” design. Shirts can be purchased online at LoveThy.Shop or in person at The Scrub Shoppe, 5010 Wildcay Way. Flyers with QR codes are also being distributed around town.
Because The Scrub Shoppe is handling design, printing, and fulfillment in-house — with M Squared Marketing donating branding and design support — nearly every dollar goes directly to Just People.
Local businesses have already begun offering support. Big Whiskey’s plans to host a donation night, while others — including Parlor Donuts, Simply Chic, Libertalia, and Norman McDonald’s Country Drive-In — are helping promote the campaign and host displays, according to Mayfield.
Fogle said the effort is about more than just funds.
“Hope,” Fogle said. “Hope for the resources we need to continue to bridge the gap between those living outside and the love we can give them.”
Stephens echoed that sentiment, emphasizing that while this campaign won’t solve homelessness, it can make a tangible difference.
“Most people don’t realize how good we have it,” he said. “We throw things away that could be life-changing for someone else. This campaign is about reminding people to love their neighbor — not just in words, but in action.”
For more information about Just People, visit JustPeople.Love.
