After a deadly tornado ripped through Somerset and London earlier this month, claiming at least 18 lives and leaving widespread devastation, one Owensboro native sprang into action.
Within hours of the EF3+ tornado touching down on May 16, Joni Paynter and her team at The Kentucky Shop had launched a relief effort that has since raised more than $125,000 for survivors.
The Kentucky Shop — a Lexington-based retailer co-founded by Paynter, who is originally from Owensboro — released a special edition “Kentucky Strong” T-shirt with 100% of net proceeds going to the Team Kentucky Storm Relief Fund.
“We knew this was going to be a massive storm with recovery efforts that will be needed for the foreseeable future,” Paynter said. “So we designed the new Kentucky Strong tee and had it online for purchase by 10 a.m. on Saturday. By that evening, we had already sold thousands of shirts.”
The Team Kentucky Storm Relief Fund was created by Gov. Andy Beshear’s administration to provide direct aid to individuals and communities affected by natural disasters. All contributions go toward immediate needs such as temporary housing, supplies, and long-term rebuilding.
The Kentucky Shop’s campaign will continue through the end of May, and the Team Kentucky fund remains open for ongoing donations.
For more information on how to contribute or to purchase the “Kentucky Strong” T-shirt, visit The Kentucky Shop’s official website at thekyshop.com.
