How to Send Messages to Inmates

You can use your phone or computer to send emails, letters, and photos to an inmate. Messages are sent electronically to inmate tablets or kiosks at the facility. If you would like to send a message, start by searching for an inmate at Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution is to send photos and postcards. It only takes a few minutes to send photos from your phone and it makes a huge difference. You can also mail postcards with words of support and inspiration, or design your own postcard for special moments like birthdays and holidays.

Important! Be sure not to send any explicit photos or they may not be approved by the facility. You can also use a photo printing app like Penmate to make sure your photos are printed at the correct size (4x6 or 3x5) and are mailed according to the rules and regulations of Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution.

Frequently asked questions about Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution

1. How long does it take to deliver a message?

   If you're sending an email message your letter is usually delivered within 24-48 hours. For messages sent via mail you should expect delivery within 3-7 days. All messages will need be approved by Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution?

   You can send a message free using your phone or mail a message via USPS for the price of a $0.60 stamp and envelope. You can also purchase credits or e-stamps from services starting at $1.99.

3. What services can I use to contact an inmate at Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution?

   Penmate

   You can use Penmate to send letters and photos to an inmate from your phone. It's an easy way to stay in touch during your loved one's incarceration. Use the inmate locator to find an inmate's location and contact information, then you can send messages within a few minutes.

   Securus messaging

   Securus may be another option for communicating with an inmate at Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution. You can create a friends and family account and purchase credits to send messages. All messages will be reviewed and must be approved by the facility.

   JPay

   Some county jails and state prisons may support sending messages with JPay. You must register an account with the system, find your loved one, and purchase stamps to send messages. For some locations you can also attach photos.

   Smart Jail Mail

   You may also check if Smart Jail Mail is available at Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution. Smart Jail Mail is operated by Smart Communications and has contracted with some state and county jails. After purchasing credits, your messages and photos are sent to the facility, printed out, and then handed out to your loved one.

4. What is the mailing address of Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution?

   Mailing address:

   Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution
   2338 N West St
   Lima, OH 45801
   Phone: (419) 224-8000

5. What are the visiting hours at Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution?

   Visiting hours at Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution vary by housing unit and security level. Generally, visits are scheduled on weekends and holidays, with some facilities offering weekday visits. Contact the facility directly at (419) 224-8000 or check their website for the current visiting schedule. Visits typically last 30-60 minutes and must be scheduled in advance.

6. What items are prohibited when sending mail to Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution?

   Prohibited items typically include: cash, personal checks, stamps, stickers, glitter, glue, tape, staples, paperclips, polaroid photos, musical or blank greeting cards, hardcover books, magazines with staples, and any items containing metal or electronics. Only send letters on plain white paper with blue or black ink. Photos must be printed on regular photo paper (no Polaroids). Always check with Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution?

   You can send money to an inmate at Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution through several methods: 1) Online using JPay, Access Corrections, or the facility's approved vendor, 2) Money orders mailed directly to the facility with the inmate's name and ID number, 3) Kiosks located in the facility lobby, or 4) Over the phone using a credit or debit card. Fees vary by method, typically ranging from $2.95 to $11.95 per transaction.

8. Can I schedule a video visit with an inmate at Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution, video visits may be available through services like Penmate, Securus Video Connect, GTL, or ICSolutions. Video visits typically cost $10-20 for 20-30 minutes and must be scheduled in advance. You'll need a computer or smartphone with a camera and reliable internet connection. Contact the facility for their specific video visitation policies and approved vendors.

9. What identification do I need to visit an inmate at Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution?

   All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who can provide the minor's birth certificate. Some facilities require visitors to be on the inmate's approved visitation list, which may require a background check. Contact Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution for specific ID requirements and visitor approval procedures.

10. How can I find out an inmate's release date?

    To find an inmate's release date at Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution, you can: 1) Use the online inmate search tool if available, 2) Call the facility's records department, 3) Contact the inmate's case manager or counselor, or 4) Have the inmate provide this information during a call or visit. For privacy reasons, some facilities only release this information to immediate family members.

Programs & Services

Personal development opportunities within Allen Oakwood Correctional Institute center on building practical skills and fostering positive change. Those incarcerated can access various pathways designed to support their reintegration into society. The facility's structured environment emphasizes security and safety while creating space for meaningful growth experiences.

Educational initiatives typically include basic literacy programs and GED preparation courses. Those incarcerated may pursue continuing education opportunities that help them develop critical thinking and communication skills. In addition to this, job training offerings often focus on practical trades and marketable skills. These vocational programs may furnish training in areas such as maintenance, food service, and other essential workplace competencies that support future employment prospects.

Support services play a crucial role in addressing underlying challenges that those incarcerated may face. Recovery services often include counseling and group sessions designed to help individuals work through substance abuse issues. Volunteer programs may connect participants with community members who provide mentorship and guidance. In addition to this, the facility typically offers printing services that may serve both operational needs and provide hands-on work experience. These comprehensive offerings work together to create a structured environment where those incarcerated can focus on developing the tools and mindset needed for successful community reentry.

Daily Life & Visitation

Building connections with family and maintaining relationships becomes a central focus for those incarcerated at Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution. Today's structured environment consistently revolves around scheduled activities that furnish opportunities for personal growth and community interaction. Generally, the day begins with early morning counts followed by meal service, with those incarcerated moving through their assigned programming and work responsibilities according to established routines.

Living accommodations typically feature dormitory-style housing units where residents share common areas and develop supportive relationships with their peers. The dining hall serves as a natural gathering place where those incarcerated can maintain social connections during regularly scheduled meal times. Despite this structured environment, personal time allows for reading, writing letters, and preparing for family visits or phone conversations.

In addition to this daily framework, recreational activities and exercise opportunities furnish important outlets for stress relief and community building. Those incarcerated may participate in various programs that often include educational classes, vocational training, and religious services. Visitation policies generally allow for regular contact with family members, while telephone access and correspondence help maintain vital outside connections. Work assignments within the facility typically range from food service and maintenance to clerical duties, providing both structure and opportunities to develop job skills that may prove valuable upon release.