After serving foster families across Western Kentucky for several years, Borrowed Hearts Owensboro is entering a new chapter with a new name.
The organization recently announced it is rebranding as The Foster Shop, a change leaders say better reflects its identity while leaving its mission unchanged.
The nonprofit will continue serving children in foster care, foster families, kinship caregivers, and the child welfare community with the same programs and support it has provided since opening.
The organization began in 2019 as an extension of Borrowed Hearts, helping bring services to foster families in Western Kentucky who previously traveled to Indiana for assistance. It has since become an independent religious nonprofit with its own 501(c)(3) status.
Although that transition occurred several years ago, the organization delayed changing its name because Borrowed Hearts Owensboro had already built strong recognition in the community.
“We started our journey with Borrowed Hearts in 2019,” said Amanda Van Bussum, president of The Foster Shop. “For a while, we operated as their sister store, helping to extend their mission to Western Kentucky and making it easier for foster families who traveled from Kentucky to their location in Indiana to have access to services and support.”
Van Bussum said the organization felt the time was right to establish its own identity.
“We decided it was time now to step out in faith and truly make a name for ourselves,” Van Bussum said. “The Foster Shop paints a true picture of who we are and the role we play in our community.”
While the organization is adopting a new name, logo, and branding, day-to-day operations will remain the same. Community members will notice updates to the storefront, social media pages, website, and printed materials, as well as a refreshed interior at the store.
“As far as operations, nothing is changing,” Van Bussum said. “The heart of who we are and what we do remains untouched.”
The organization said its mission remains unchanged and that it will continue serving children in foster care, foster families, kinship caregivers, and the child welfare community with the same support it has provided since its founding.
Van Bussum said supporters have played a vital role in helping the nonprofit serve local families.
“Because of you, children and families in our community continue to experience hope, dignity and support when they need it most,” Van Bussum said. “We look forward to expanding our impact while remaining committed to being the hands and feet of Jesus for those we serve.”
As The Foster Shop begins its next chapter, the organization says its guiding principle remains the same: “Same mission. Same heart. New name.”
