Located at the northern coast of Cebu, Malapascua Island is a popular tourist destination, especially for divers, due to its crystal blue waters and rich aquatic ecosystems. The island spans 2.5 kilometers and has a width of 1 kilometer, making it easy to explore and allowing its citizens to foster deeper relationships among the people in the community. But beyond its beauty, there is an underlying problem of malnutrition rooted in limited economic opportunities and lack of accessible nutritional sources.

Guided by its mission to fight malnutrition, USANA Foundation brought their Garden Towers to the island. USANA Foundation’s Garden Towers is an innovative solution that provides sustainable, nutritious food for people all over the world. Each tower is made of durable material, can hold up to 120 plants, and uses 30 percent less water. Aside from being a nutritional source, the Garden Towers also generate income, promote self-reliance, and foster community collaboration and bonding.

“The people of Malapascua are malnourished because many of them do not have affordable access to quality nutrition. This project helps people have sustainable, accessible nutrition where they live, which will help improve their quality of life and health. That falls in line completely with USANA’s broader mission to be the healthiest family on earth!” said Brian Paul, USANA Foundation’s President. “Malapascua Island is a unique place with unique challenges, and we are eager to see how the families take care of their towers here”, he added.

Through the joint efforts of the USANA Foundation and Malapascua’s island leaders, families, and local businesses, tons of soil, seeds, plants, and watering tools have been transported to the island to make the Garden Towers come to fruition. Each tower is expected to yield approximately 3,000 additional servings of produce annually which would benefit the people’s overall nutrition.

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