People had to drive miles just to buy a gallon of milk or a loaf or bread, and if anyone wanted a noon meal in town, they had to pack a lunch. So the town decided to take action. All one hundred fifty homes in Farnhamville later, the club had raised 32-thousand dollars. They bought a building and leased it to Ruth Dewitt for one dollar. In return for her business, people get a place to gather and to eat.
Residents say it's nice to see cars out on the street again.
The community hopes to raise more money to pay the building's taxes. The betterment club hosted a fundraiser April 21st at 2 pm at Gowrie High School. The Iowa State Cyclone senior basketball players took on area athletes. Money raised will help pay to keep the town's newest business thriving. Only approximately 1 out of 8 Phase I proposals are funded.