WOODBINE, Iowa [KETV] — The family-run Food Land grocery store has stood where it is now in downtown Woodbine for 57 years. But as KJAN mentioned, two weeks ago, fire engulfed the town’s only grocery store. It took several hours for the volunteer fire departments to put out the flames. It’s made it more difficult for some to put food on the table. Now the closest grocery stores are in Dunlap and Logan, or the local Dollar General Store. A Food Land spokesperson told KETV in Omaha, the store will eventually re-open. In the meantime, about 30 volunteers are offering to pick up groceries for those who are unable to drive themselves. Even if someone has the ability to drive out of town, they’re happy to help.

John Corbett, who is heading-up the restoration efforts for Food Land in Woodbine, said they’re waiting on word on whether the structure will be strong enough to remain. If so, he said they’ve set an “ambitious” goal of opening by the end of October. The equipment and shelves need to be replaced, and that depends on the production supply chain having those products available.

Woodbine Fire & Rescue Association Facebook page photo

If they can’t get the equipment and shelves in soon, it will likely be next year before the store re-opens, according to Corbett. He said also, the company expects to learn more after their insurance company visits for a more detailed look at the damage this week.

Corbett said the cause of the fire is still under investigation.