About

The Women’s Respite Program (WRP) was founded in 1989 to provide respite to low-income, single mothers. The program has since expanded to include retreats for grandmothers raising grandchildren, women with cancer, and alumnae of previous retreats. Over the past 21 years, the WRP has welcomed over 600 women to participate in a weekend of rest, relaxation, and renewal. The WRP is a part of the Francis Center Inc. a not for profit corporation.

Retreat weekends take place at Stella Niagara Center for Renewal four times a year – in the spring, summer, and twice in the winter. Retreat activities include swimming, massage, reiki, reflexology, makeovers, arts and crafts, journal writing, meditation, and more. The programs provide participants with an opportunity to meet other women with similar experiences and to form a support network that extends beyond the weekend. The primary goal is to decrease the stress, isolation, and lack of self worth that many of our participants experience.

The Women’s Respite Program serves women from low-income families of any race or creed. Many of the participants are unemployed, employed in low paying jobs, or receiving Public Assistance. All are referred by various social service agencies. Those who are determined by the referring professional to be in serious need (especially where the threat of child abuse exists) are given priority in the application process.