New Rochester Initiative Supports Mental Health of Crisis Responders
ROCHESTER, N.Y. — A new sanctuary for frontline workers has opened in Rochester, offering a place of healing and renewal for those who serve the community in times of crisis.
BreatheDeep Inc., in partnership with the Greater Rochester Health Foundation, has launched Project Restore: The Respite Place, a space dedicated to the mental health and well-being of crisis counselors, victim support specialists, and mental health professionals. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held Jan. 23 to mark the occasion.
The initiative is deeply personal for Dr. Melany J. Silas-Chandler, founder and executive director of BreatheDeep Inc. She dedicated the space to her late mother, Anita Silas, whose journey with schizophrenia inspired her lifelong mission of healing, understanding and hope.
“What began 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, employs people and dreams of doing even more.”
Located at 1515 South Ave., the Respite Place provides a range of self-care resources, including a dry sauna, massage chair, kitchen, bedroom and comfortable living space. Visitors can participate in therapeutic counseling, wellness activities, personal fitness training and immersive day-stay experiences. These services help caregivers process vicarious trauma, regain strength and restore balance.
Silas-Chandler emphasized the importance of caring for those who dedicate their lives to helping others.
“We want to make sure our helpers and healers receive the same level of care they provide to others,” she said. “This space gives them a chance to rest, relax and reflect—so they can restore themselves and continue their vital 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. It ensures that those who heal others have a place to rest, recharge and remain well. When they’re supported, our entire community benefits.”
Initially, access to 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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