Erika allen chicago

Erika Allen grew up on a farm in Rockville, Md. Grist thanks its sponsors. Become one. Our team of journalists remains dedicated to telling stories of climate, justice, and solutions. We aim to inspire more people to talk about climate change and to believe that meaningful change is not only possible but happening right now. Our in-depth approach to solutions-based journalism takes time and proactive planning, which is why Grist depends on reader support.

In , the U. This year, Emanuel said Vilsack agreed to a one-year grant to serve as the seed money for the latest produce bus model. Asked what's different about the program this time around, Allen didn't hesitate: "We grow our own food. Under Food Desert Action's previous business model, the foundation purchased produce and turned around and sold it on the buses, operating on thin price margins. Allen argued she has far less overhead than that previous setup since her nonprofit Growing Power, which started and still operates farms in Milwaukee, provides much of the food the bus will sell.

Allen said 90 percent of what is sold on the buses will be grown in Chicago or within miles of the city, with the exception being more tropical fruits such as bananas and oranges. She said the bus also will sell salads and healthy drinks and snacks that will help generate revenue.

I think this partnership, which is locally grown, gives you a cost advantage that I think will be significant," Emanuel said. As with the previous Fresh Moves model, Emanuel contributed an old city bus to the initiative. Search Search. Subscribe to Digital Edition Here! Sign Up Now. October Issue. Read It Now. Click Here to Read Past Issues.