Women’s home efforts continuing

Published 8:00 pm Tuesday, September 4, 2012

A Jackson couple is continuing their efforts to bring a “transitional home” to Lincoln County.

     Johnnie and Stephanie Turner’s plan for a home, called “Doll’s House,” is for women who have recently been released from prison and would serve to help them get back on their feet.

     Originally slated for a location in the county, the couple is now looking at a building at 511 North Church St., the site of the former Serenity House. Johnnie Turner said they are seeking a zoning variance from the city but have not heard a reply.

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     The Turners have said they’ve received positive support from the community, but are now looking to raise money to continue their efforts.

     The couple is partnering with Legacy Toyota in Brookhaven in a drawing for a 2012 Toyota Yaris. Cash prizes will also be awarded during the drawing, which will be held on Oct. 20.

     Tickets, which are available for a $20 donation, can be obtained at Legacy Toyota, Clint’s Pharmacy and Curves. Temporary ticket locations will be set up a various locations, including high school football games, during the drive.

     Prentiss Smith, general manager of Legacy Toyota, said the dealership was glad to help out.

     “Toyota has recently made 100 cars available for good charities in the United States,” said Smith.

     The Turners said they are also looking for sponsors for the home.

     “We’re calling on community-minded leaders and mission-minded churches to help out,” said Johnnie Turner.

     Their goal is to begin renovations to the property on Oct. 1, and Johnnie Turner said he expects them to take a month to complete.

     “They’re not major renovations,” he said. “Just minor things around the property that we would need to do. Redoing the bathrooms would probably be the biggest part of it.”

     The money raised will also help with stocking the home with the needed supplies.

     “We’ll need towels, bedding, linens, refrigerators, freezers, and other things to get going,” said Stephanie Turner.

     Once open, the Turners plan for a two-year rehabilitation program that reintroduces women to society and teaches them skills they can use to be productive and help provide for their families.