Investing in our community.
Our story begins with my sweet "Tutu" (grandma), raised in Hawaii. Tutu was the sassy type - if you filled her water too full at a restaurant, she would let you know by pouring it out on the floor until it was at her desired level for easy drinking (...sorry, not sorry?). Tutu was also the most generous person I've ever met. She loved the social experience of great food and she made for certain my brothers and I weren't afraid to try something new. In fact, we had to try something new at just about every meal we went out to - like it or not!
At a young age of 76, tutu became ill and was diagnosed with Pancreatic cancer. During the last little bit of her life, our family took turns helping her - from grocery shopping to taxiing to Dr. appointments. Cooking was never tutu's strong suite and when she did not feel good enough to eat out any more, she ended up relying on low nutrient freezer meals and meal replacement drinks. After about five months, my sweet tutu passed away. Unbeknownst to our family, the cancer had spread too quickly.
No one can say for sure why cancer takes lives, but we do know that there is plenty of research out there proving whole foods (i.e. fruits, veggies) can slow and even reverse cancer, heart disease, and others alike. Our bodies and minds flourish when we receive enough essential nutrients and the earlier we start taking care of ourselves, the longer we'll get to enjoy doing what we love.
Pantry Fuel has a mission to serve our community convenient, healthy meals made from whole food ingredients. The closer food is to its natural state (whole food) and the denser the nutrients, the more money's worth for you.
We're here to ease some of the pain for a family going through medical hardship - we want to take the meal planning off of your plate. We're here for the new mom who is busy taking care of her babies while still needing to fuel her body with healthy, whole foods. We're here for the busy athlete or business professional whose options are to come home to an empty fridge or grab crappy take-out or fast food, again.
Pantry Fuel is investing in the health of our community to improve lives - one meal at a time!
MEET YOUR TEAM
Maisa Abudayha, Owner
In 2013, I moved to the U.S. from Jordan, equipped with a Bachelor's in IT and an international stockbroker license. I began my journey in Spokane as a Bilingual Specialist & Substitute Teacher in Spokane Public Schools. In 2019, I found my true passion in cooking and became the Chef program director at Feast world kitchen.
My love for food and culture led me to become the Co-Executive director by 2022. I've always believed that food is a crucial part of every culture and a way for people to express themselves. This belief inspired me to create a nonprofit restaurant that promotes positive and delicious inclusion for immigrant communities in Spokane.
Over the years, I've had the privilege of helping chefs with business licenses, savings accounts, and other opportunities to sustain their new lives. I give my all so others can flourish, treating every shift and event as a growth opportunity. I'm proud to say that my leadership has helped over 75 families.
In recognition of my efforts, I was named the Woman of Achievement in 2023 for Art and Culture. If you'd like to know more about me and my journey, you can read about it in this article: https://ywcaspokane.org/2023-woa-honorees/
I'm excited to bring my passion for food, culture, and community to Pantry Fuel. I look forward to serving you and continuing the great tradition of this beloved service.
Jennifer Stuchell, Founder/Queen Bee Food Slinger
I've always been passionate about learning and connecting what I do with family & friends on a deep, intentional level. Cooking is just part of the story - gardening, farming, and growing food is the connection we've been integrating with our passion and sharing this connection with our community. When I'm not in the kitchen or garden, you can find me playing piano, exploring the outdoors on ski, or running with my girls cross country team at Shadle Park high school.
Cheers to your passions!
Doug | Head Chef/Kitchen Manager
