Community raises $455,000 for Templeton Feed and Grain building recovery effort
Photo by Rick Evans.
New storefront planned at original South Main Street location
– Following the July 4, 2025, fire that destroyed Templeton Feed & Grain in Templeton, a community-led fundraising effort organized by the Stronger Together Committee presented $455,000 to support the recovery and rebuilding of the longtime business.
The committee announced that funds were raised through community events and initiatives, including One Town, One Table, The Grain Revival, auctions, merchandise sales, and individual donations. All proceeds were processed through SLO Ponderosa, which served as the campaign’s 501(c)(3) fiscal sponsor.
According to the announcement, $513,803.16 was raised in total. After event expenses and processing fees, $455,000 was presented directly to Templeton Feed & Grain.
Demolition of the remaining storefront was completed in February 2026, marking the final removal of the original structure lost in the fire. Organizers said attention has now shifted toward rebuilding and the future of the business on its original Main Street site.
Plans are underway for a new storefront to be built on the original South Main Street property. While the poured-in-place concrete façade dating to 1912 could not be preserved because of structural limitations, organizers said the new design is expected to reflect the historic appearance and footprint of the original building. Feed recipes remain unchanged and continue to be produced off-site during the rebuilding process.
Rick Jermin, co-owner of the business, thanked supporters who contributed to the recovery effort.
“Thanks so much for your thoughtful donation,” Jermin said. “Our family is deeply touched by your generosity and by your shared love for Templeton Feed & Grain. Losing such an iconic building has been heartbreaking, but your kindness and support have brought us comfort and strength.”
The Stronger Together Committee was formed by local residents and business owners after the fire with the goal of supporting the Jermin family and the business.
“Pulling resources and fundraising has been a natural reflex for the community as a whole, and with most of the Stronger Together committee being both neighbors and customers of the Feed & Grain, it felt like the right thing to do,” committee member Sierra English said. “I remember looking up from the auction table during The Grain Revival, realizing that the hundreds of people on Main Street showed up for the exact same reasons we felt compelled to help. It was humbling to facilitate something so special.”
Major donors included Justin Vineyards, Weyrick Lumber, and Penny-Newman Grain Company. Food, logistics, production, and volunteer support were provided by local businesses, civic groups, and individuals across North San Luis Obispo County.
“The devastating loss of our community landmark deeply impacted everyone,” said Jeff Briltz, general manager of the Templeton Community Services District. “Yet, even before it was fully extinguished, residents and businesses immediately combined resources to transform this tragedy into a powerful display of strength and support that was truly heartfelt and unifying.”
“Templeton Feed & Grain was never just a building — it was the people and community who gave it life,” Jermin said. “From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for standing with us during this difficult time.”
