Restoring Women Outreach Opens The CJ House for Recovery

Restoring Women Outreach (RWO) has opened its sixth sober-living home, named The CJ House, aimed at providing essential support for women recovering from substance use disorder. Located in Cullman, Alabama, the new facility was officially announced by founder and Executive Director Carol Berry, who dedicated the home in memory of her daughter, CJ.

“I am so proud of this project,” Berry stated, emphasizing the significance of the new home. “We just closed on it last month and had it painted. They will be able to move in within five weeks.” The CJ House reflects RWO’s mission to offer safe and structured housing for women seeking recovery, drawing inspiration from CJ’s life and spirit.

The initiative has received considerable support from the Cullman community, with contributions from individual donors, churches, businesses, civic groups, partner nonprofits, and volunteers. Johnny Berry, a local attorney and Carol Berry’s husband, highlighted the program’s humble beginnings and the pivotal role played by the late Dorothy Frady. “Mrs. Frady was a wonderful lady,” he shared. “She had a spare house that she rented to us for $1 for the entire year to use in this outreach program.”

Johnny Berry also shared his personal connection to the cause, revealing that his own struggles with addiction over 30 years ago fueled his commitment to RWO. “My drug of choice was whiskey,” he said. “By the grace of God, He is always there if you will listen to him.” This outreach program incorporates elements of a 12-step program, beginning with a spiritual transition to support recovery.

Since its establishment in 2011, RWO has served hundreds of women in Cullman and surrounding counties. The organization provides more than just housing; it offers life skills training, transportation, GED support, career guidance, and a community dedicated to empowering women on their recovery journeys.

The opening of The CJ House was significantly bolstered by a generous $20,000 donation from an anonymous benefactor in honor of Gary Holland, who was known for his compassion towards those struggling with substance use. “We are deeply humbled by this generosity,” Carol Berry remarked. “Gary supported Restoring Women Outreach from the beginning, and his legacy of kindness will continue in the lives changed here.”

As demand for safe recovery housing continues to rise, the addition of The CJ House will allow RWO to support more women awaiting placement. The organization is still seeking community assistance to finalize renovations and furnish the new home. Donations can be made in memory of CJ or in honor of Gary Holland.

For further information on how to contribute or support this initiative, individuals can reach RWO at P.O. Box 307, Cullman, AL 35056, or by calling 256-727-6531. More details are available on their website at restoringwomenoutreach.org.