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 Allendale Correctional Institution.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Allendale 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 Allendale Correctional Institution.

Frequently asked questions about Allendale 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 Allendale Correctional Institution.

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

   Mailing address:

   Allendale Correctional Institution
   1057 Revolutionary Trail
   Fairfax, SC 29827
   Phone: (803) 734-0653

5. What are the visiting hours at Allendale Correctional Institution?

   Visiting hours at Allendale 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 (803) 734-0653 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 Allendale 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 Allendale Correctional Institution for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Allendale 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 Allendale Correctional Institution?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Allendale 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 Allendale 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 Allendale 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 Allendale 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

Through comprehensive programming designed to address individual needs, support is provided to the population at Allendale Correctional Facility through a variety of services that focus on personal growth and successful community reintegration. The facility's approach emphasizes building skills and addressing underlying issues that may have contributed to incarceration. These programs typically operate on the principle that meaningful change occurs when individuals have access to education, vocational training, and therapeutic support services that prepare them for life beyond the facility walls.

Educational services form a cornerstone of the facility's offerings, providing the population with opportunities to earn their GED or complete high school equivalency programs. These academic programs may supply basic literacy instruction and adult education classes tailored to various skill levels. In addition to this, vocational programs often include hands-on training in practical skills that can lead to employment opportunities upon release. The landscaping program, for example, typically teaches participants valuable outdoor maintenance skills while contributing to the facility's grounds upkeep, creating both practical learning experiences and a sense of accomplishment.

Support services extend beyond traditional education to address the whole person through faith-based initiatives and restorative justice programs. Faith-based programming may offer spiritual guidance and community connections that help participants develop positive coping mechanisms and moral foundations. The restorative justice components often include victim impact awareness and conflict resolution training, helping the population understand the broader effects of their actions while developing empathy and accountability. These therapeutic approaches typically emphasize healing relationships with family members and preparing individuals to make positive contributions to their communities upon reintegration.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured schedules and clear organizational frameworks shape every aspect of the experience for the population at Allendale Correctional Facility. The facility currently operates on a regimented daily routine that continues to provide predictability and order. Wake-up calls typically occur in the early morning hours, followed by scheduled count times throughout the day. Meals generally take place at designated intervals, with the population moving through dining areas in organized groups. Work assignments supply essential structure, as residents may be assigned to various facility operations including kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, or laundry services.

Housing units at the facility typically accommodate multiple residents in dormitory-style or cell-based arrangements. Living spaces generally include basic furnishings and storage for approved personal property. In addition to this structured living environment, residents usually have access to commissary services where they can purchase approved items using funds from their accounts. Personal hygiene items and some food products may be available through these services, though availability often depends on facility policies and security considerations.

The facility typically offers recreational opportunities that supply both physical activity and social interaction for the population. Exercise periods may include outdoor recreation time and access to gymnasium facilities when available. Despite this structured environment, family connections continue to be supported through scheduled visitation programs and telephone privileges. Programming schedules often include educational opportunities, vocational training, or rehabilitation services designed to prepare residents for eventual reintegration. Mail correspondence generally provides another avenue for maintaining outside relationships, though all communications typically undergo security screening procedures consistent with correctional standards.