"The way we farm and distribute food is a social justice issue, a public health issue, and an economic resiliency issue," Nona Yehia said.
Yehia is the co-founder and chief executive officer of Vertical Harvest, a company that aims to be an all-in-one solution to these overlapping issues. Not only does the Wyoming-based company provide local, fresh, nutrient-dense produce year-round, but it also provides meaningful work for people with developmental disabilities, who are often confined to low-wage, part-time roles.
During the 2008 recession, there was limited work available for Yehia. She is an architect by trade and decided to use her newfound time to focus on the needs of her community in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. With her co-founders Penny McBride and Caroline Croft Estay, the team identified two seemingly unrelated voids to fill: year-round fresh produce in a place with a four-month growing season and a job market for people with developmental disabilities.
They set out to address the question: "How could we grow as much food, employ as many people as possible, and do both year round?" The answer? Vertical Harvest.
Read more at www.triplepundit.com