DeKalb County Jail Chaplain Airrener Farquharson has earned kudos for her work from the Atlanta Chapter of the National Coalition of Women in Ministry.

Farquharson, who has been at the jail for 11 years, received a plaque at the group’s May 8 awards ceremony celebrating and honoring women in ministry for their leadership, commitment, and tireless service in their communities and churches.

Farquharson, who is an associate minister at Big Miller Grove Baptist Church in Lithonia, has held the office of head chaplain for eight years at the jail. She coordinates 55 volunteer chaplains and ensures that Sunday church services and weekday Bible services are held. She also seeks donations of Bibles and other faith-based books for the jail and counsels inmates, employees and their families. She also facilitates visits from clergy of various denominations at inmates’ request.

“Many inmates who have been here for a while need clothing upon their release, or some may need a place to stay,” Farquharson said. “We try to assist them with these needs, also.”

Her community service extends beyond the jail house. She works with the Street Jail Prison and Hospital Ministry, the Ronald McDonald House (McMeal) Program, serves as a youth counselor and mentor in the school system, and conducts workshops on women’s issues.

Sheriff Thomas Brown said Farquharson deserves the award.

“We are extremely grateful for the personal sacrifices and the difference that she makes among inmates and employees at the Sheriff’s Office,” he said.