Rochester Opens Healing Space for Crisis Responders
ROCHESTER, N.Y. — A new sanctuary in Rochester is providing frontline workers with a much-needed place to heal and recharge.
BreatheDeep Inc., in partnership with the Greater Rochester Health Foundation, has launched Project Restore: The Respite Place, a dedicated space for the mental health and well-being of crisis counselors, victim support specialists, and mental health professionals. A ribbon-cutting ceremony on Jan. 23 marked the official opening.
For Dr. Melany J. Silas-Chandler, founder and executive director of BreatheDeep Inc., the initiative is deeply personal. She dedicated the space to her late mother, Anita Silas, whose journey with schizophrenia inspired her mission of healing, understanding and hope.
“What started as a simple hashtag for one of my business ventures has grown into something much greater,” Silas-Chandler said. “BreatheDeep now heals, restores, educates, creates safe spaces, provides jobs and continues to dream bigger.”
Located at 1515 South Ave., The Respite Place offers a range of self-care resources, including a dry sauna, massage chair, fully equipped kitchen, bedroom and comfortable living space. Visitors can participate in therapeutic counseling, wellness activities, personal fitness training and immersive day-stay experiences—all designed to help them process trauma, regain strength and restore balance.
Silas-Chandler stressed the importance of caring for those who dedicate their lives to others.
“Our helpers and healers deserve the same care they provide to others,” she said. “This space gives them the opportunity to rest, reflect and truly restore themselves so they can continue their essential work.”
The goal of Project Restore is to equip Rochester’s caregivers with the tools they need to manage workplace stress and trauma. By prioritizing their well-being, the initiative strengthens both individuals and the broader community.
“Mental health professionals carry the weight of others’ pain every day, often at the expense of their own,” Silas-Chandler said. “The Respite Place is essential. When our caregivers are supported, they can continue their life-changing work, and our entire community benefits.”
Initially, The Respite Place will be available exclusively to staff from organizations involved in the Greater Rochester Health Foundation’s Racial Health Equity efforts, according to BreatheDeep Inc.
For more information, visit breathedeepinc.org/project-restore.
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