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Shah HetviShah Hetvi

Discovering Blazer Kitchen has been a true game changer for Shah Hetvi as she navigates the whirlwind of graduate studies—balancing rigorous academics, living expenses, and daily essentials.

She first heard about this lifeline through UAB resources and peers, and as an international student on a tight budget she immediately felt relief.

Blazer Kitchen’s steady supply of fresh produce and everyday staples means Shah no longer worries about stretching her grocery dollars or skipping meals. Instead, she enjoys a variety of healthy foods that fuel both her body and mind, freeing her to dive deeper into her research and personal growth.

But Blazer Kitchen is more than just affordable groceries—it’s a warm, stigma-free haven where students, staff, and patients connect over shared challenges and mutual support. Every visit brings friendly faces of dedicated volunteers and staff who go out of their way to make sure no one feels judged or alone.

For Shah, knowing there’s a caring community behind her nutritional needs has become as vital as any textbook or lecture hall. Her journey with Blazer Kitchen has shown her that when a community comes together, financial hurdles shrink and academic dreams feel within reach.

She’s excited to see Blazer Kitchen grow through generous donations to touch more lives across the UAB family.