Restoring Women Outreach Launches Sixth Sober-Living Home in Cullman

Restoring Women Outreach (RWO) has inaugurated its sixth sober-living home, named The CJ House, in Cullman, Alabama. This initiative aims to provide safe and structured housing for women recovering from substance use disorders. Founded in 2011 by Carol Berry, RWO is dedicated to supporting women on their journey to recovery.

The new residence, The CJ House, has been established in loving memory of Berry’s daughter, CJ. “We just closed on it last month and had it painted,” said Berry. “They will be able to move in within five weeks. We are so proud of this project.” The home represents a continuation of a mission inspired by CJ’s life, highlighting Berry’s hope that each woman who enters will experience the same love and resilience that defined her daughter.

Community support has been vital in making this project possible. Berry expressed gratitude for the contributions from individual donors, local churches, businesses, and civic groups. “The opening of this sixth home was made possible through the generous support of the Cullman community,” she stated.

In a reflection of the program’s origins, Johnny Berry, Carol’s husband and a local attorney, noted the significant role played by the late Dorothy Frady. He recalled how Frady rented a house to them for just $1 for an entire year, which helped kickstart the outreach program. “Had it not been for Dorothy Frady, it would never be where it is today,” he said.

Johnny Berry also shared his personal journey with addiction, emphasizing the importance of faith in recovery. “My drug of choice was whiskey. By the grace of God, He is always there if you will listen to him,” he explained. The RWO program incorporates principles from the 12-step recovery process, with an emphasis on spiritual growth.

Since its inception, RWO has served hundreds of women in Cullman and surrounding areas, offering more than just housing. The organization provides life skills training, transportation services, and support for obtaining GEDs and career opportunities. “A major step toward making The CJ House a reality came through a generous $20,000 gift from an anonymous donor in honor of Gary Holland,” said Berry. She noted that Holland, who was deeply committed to the cause, had a lasting impact on the community, with this donation enabling the purchase of the new home.

The need for safe and structured recovery housing continues to grow, making the establishment of The CJ House particularly timely. With this new facility, RWO can accommodate more women in urgent need of support and recovery resources.

To complete renovations and furnish The CJ House, RWO is still seeking community support. Donations can be made in memory of CJ or in honor of Gary Holland. For more information or to contribute, individuals can contact RWO at P.O. Box 307, Cullman, AL 35056, or call 256-727-6531. More details can also be found online at restoringwomenoutreach.org.

The establishment of The CJ House not only expands RWO’s reach but also honors the legacy of those who have inspired its mission. As the organization continues to grow, it remains committed to fostering hope and resilience among women in recovery.