At 16, Kiara Stoner nearly lost her life after an overdose, struggling with depression, an unplanned pregnancy, and a miscarriage that reopened deep childhood wounds of abuse. Now 23, Stoner is a survivor and an entrepreneur, turning her pain into purpose by working with Peel Children’s Aid Society (CAS) to help youth facing similar battles.
Stoner, the founder of Mississauga-based natural hair care business XAYMACA Curls, credits Peel CAS for providing the support that helped her regain confidence and rebuild her life. She now leads workshops for youth focused on mental health, entrepreneurship, and self-care, using her own story to show that recovery is possible. “My central message is to not be afraid to seek help. No matter what you’re going through, you don’t have to feel ashamed or scared,” she said.
Peel CAS is marking Suicide Prevention Month by amplifying conversations about youth mental health. The agency notes that suicide is the second leading cause of death for Canadians aged 15 to 34, with 20,000 mental-health-related ER visits annually in Peel. Its Youth Wellness Hub has already served more than 450 youth through nearly 2,000 visits since its opening in February.
Mary Beth Moellenkamp, CEO of Peel CAS, says their Mississauga location is evolving into a community hub to connect families with services addressing youth mental health, intimate partner violence, addictions, and human trafficking. “By bringing people and systems together, we hope to create better outcomes for children and families,” she said.
Those in crisis can call the new 988 suicide helpline or Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868 for immediate support. Stoner hopes her message reaches those who need it most: “You are not alone — there is hope, there is healing, and you can overcome.”