La Tanglia Williams has not always been on the right side of the law. In fact, she was incarcerated in the Dallas County Jail for a short time.
She is still in the jail on a regular basis, but now she’s on the other side of the bars, ministering to female inmates.
Not only has Williams turned her life around, but she is also using her experience to help others who are currently inmates at the Dallas County Jail. At the Feb. 14 Dallas County Commission meeting, Sheriff Mike Granthum presented an award of special recognition to Williams for all the work she does at the jail.
Granthum said it was like a calling or a dream for Williams to minister to the female inmates after she served her time. To accomplish this, she started LIFT Ministries, an organization that ministers to the inmates, bringing them the love and word of Christ.
“That’s not all she does,” Granthum said. “And she’ll be the first to tell you, she doesn’t do it all herself. But I can’t tell you how many times she has been out there bringing hundreds of sticks of deodorant and other toiletries.”
Granthum explained, “A lot of times, when inmates get locked up, the families forget them. They’re humans, too. She got love when she was locked up, but she realized so many did not have love, so she showers them with love and teaches them about the Lord. I can’t tell you how special she is, and I’m proud to say she’s a friend of mine.”
Granthum read a resolution recognizing Williams’ community service.
Williams thanked a long list of friends and family, including her father, Commissioner Curtis Williams. She also thanked the whole county commission for their continued support. Then she thanked Granthum.
“When I was incarcerated at the Dallas County Jail, Sheriff Granthum wasn't the sheriff yet,” Williams said. “He said when I got out, ‘I promise you, if I’m elected, you’re going to get to go out there and minister to those women, because your story can inspire them all.’ Thank you, Sheriff Granthum, for keeping your word.”
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