When I fractured my neck a few years ago, my world changed overnight. The isolation and uncertainty I felt during recovery gave me a glimpse into the mental health struggles so many young people face, often alone and unsupported. Even with my family by my side, I found myself questioning my worth and place in the world. It made me think about those who face mental health challenges every day, often without a support network or access to care.
My partner’s experience with anxiety brought these issues even closer to home. We both realized that while I could offer comfort, professional support was what she truly needed. But as we searched for help, we ran into the same barriers many students do: stigma, cost, and a lack of accessible resources. That’s when we discovered Stella’s Place, a Toronto-based organization offering free mental health supports to young adults aged 16 to 29.
Inspired by my own journey and the positive impact Stella’s Place had on my partner, I saw an opportunity to make a difference through my student-founded clothing brand, Forget What People Think (FWPT). FWPT’s mission has always been to uplift self-confidence, and this collaboration felt like a natural extension of that goal. Together with Stella’s Place, we launched a hoodie fundraiser with 100% of proceeds directly supporting their programs.
What Makes Stella’s Place Special?
Stella’s Place stands out for its commitment to accessible, youth-driven mental health care. Their programs are free, inclusive, and designed with input from young adults themselves. Here’s how they support the community:
- Individual Intake & Counselling: Young adults can fill out an intake form to access ongoing programs, with support from clinicians to find the right fit for their needs.
- Drop-In Services: From the BeanBagChat app (offering one-on-one support) to virtual drop-in counselling and group sessions like Stella’s Orbit and Queer Expressions, Stella’s Place offers flexible, low-barrier ways to connect.
- Peer Support: Trained Peer Ambassadors with lived experience provide guidance and understanding, while the “My Next Chapter” program helps young adults develop their own peer support skills.
- Accessible Referrals: Youth can self-refer or be referred by professionals, ensuring that support is never out of reach.
Stella’s Place focuses on young adults living in Toronto, especially those in “M” postal code areas, but their welcoming approach means anyone in need can reach out.
A Hoodie With a Message
The FWPT x Stella’s Place hoodie isn’t just clothing, it’s a symbol. The design features a barcode with a person bending the bars, paired with the phrase “DON’T SELL YOURSELF SHORT.” It’s a reminder that seeking help is an act of strength, not weakness, and that everyone deserves to not let the labels other people put on them stop them from seeing their own value.100% for the Cause
Every dollar of profit from hoodie sales goes directly to Stella’s Place. By purchasing or even just spreading the word, you’re helping more young people access the support they need—whether that’s a chat with a peer, a group session, or ongoing therapy.
Join Us in Breaking the Stigma
Mental health challenges can feel isolating, but together, we can build a more supportive community. This initiative isn’t just about a hoodie, it’s about connecting UofT students and young adults across Toronto with real help and hope.
To learn more and provide your support for the cause, visit fwpt.ca/stellas-place-fundraiser or stellasplace.ca. If you, or someone you know, is in need of mental health support, you can contact Stella's Place at 416-461-2345 or send them an email at connect@stellasplace.ca.
Don’t sell yourself short—reach out, support each other, and help break the barriers to mental health care.
