Mona Stilwell

Mona Stilwell is the founder of Feeding Mama, a meal preparation and delivery service based in Vancouver, B.C., that focuses on supporting new parents during the postpartum period. Her initiative is rooted in the traditional Chinese postpartum practice known as Zuò Yuè Zi, which emphasizes nourishing foods and care for new mothers during their recovery, often referred to as the "fourth trimester" .13

Background and Motivation

Before establishing Feeding Mama, Stilwell worked as a project manager in the tech industry. Her transition into entrepreneurship was inspired by her own postpartum experience, where she benefited from having nutritious meals prepared for her by a private chef, which significantly aided her recovery .1 Recognizing that many new mothers lacked similar support, she decided to create a service that would provide healthy meals tailored to the needs of postpartum parents .4

Mission and Services

Feeding Mama aims to reclaim and adapt traditional postpartum rituals for contemporary families. The meals offered are designed not only to nourish but also to reflect the cultural heritage of the clients, thus fostering a deeper connection with their roots .1 Stilwell emphasizes that awareness of postpartum care is growing, particularly with the rise of midwifery and parental leave policies, yet many still overlook the importance of dedicated recovery time for new mothers .12

Community Impact

Stilwell's work extends beyond meal delivery; she aims to educate and raise awareness about the importance of postpartum care within North American society. By blending traditional practices with modern needs, Feeding Mama serves as a bridge between cultures and promotes understanding of diverse parenting experiences .13

Through her efforts, Mona Stilwell is not only redefining motherhood but also preserving valuable cultural traditions for future generations.