Tyler Perry has made headlines throughout the week for making history—for opening the largest film studio owned by an African American.
The massive of 330-acre film studio in Atlanta will certainly create numerous opportunities for film makers but the grounds will also be used to serve those in need.
Mr. Perry is determined to add a shelter for trafficking victims, homeless women and displaced LGBTQ youth.
“You know, the studio’s gonna be what it is,” he said. “I’ll tell you what I’m most excited about next is pulling this next phase off, is building a compound for trafficked women, girls, homeless women, LGBTQ youth who are put out and displaced… somewhere on these 330 acres, where they’re trained in the business and they become self-sufficient.”
The wealthy producer and philanthropist was once homeless as a young man when he first moved to Atlanta to launch his career as a playwright. He is also a survivor of child abuse — experiences that informed his motivations to become a storyteller.
“I would challenge anyone who is struggling or trying to figure out what to do to press on because whatever this pain was, there is an opposite. Here I am in it, and I’m loving every day,” he said
