USANA Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Usana Health Sciences, has constructed over 100 garden towers on Malapascua Island, Cebu, to provide sustainable and accessible nutrition sources. The initiative strengthens USANA’s global mission to eliminate hunger and malnutrition. Malapascua Island, a popular tourist destination with crystal blue waters and rich aquatic ecosystems, spans 2.5 kilometers and 1 kilometer. However, malnutrition remains a significant issue due to limited economic opportunities and a lack of accessible nutritional sources. The foundation’s mission is to be the healthiest family on earth.
Guided by its mission to fight malnutrition, the USANA Foundation brought its Garden Towers to the island. USANA Foundation’s Garden Towers is an innovative solution providing sustainable, nutritious food worldwide. Each tower is durable, can hold up to 120 plants, and uses 30 percent less water. Aside from being a nutritional source, the Garden Towers generate income, promote self-reliance, and foster community collaboration and bonding.
“The people of Malapascua are malnourished because many 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 aligns 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.