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 Arkansas Department of Corrections, McPherson Women's Unit.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Arkansas Department of Corrections, McPherson Women's Unit 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 Arkansas Department of Corrections, McPherson Women's Unit.

Frequently asked questions about Arkansas Department of Corrections, McPherson Women's Unit

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 Arkansas Department of Corrections, McPherson Women's Unit.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Arkansas Department of Corrections, McPherson Women's Unit?

   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 Arkansas Department of Corrections, McPherson Women's Unit?

   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 Arkansas Department of Corrections, McPherson Women's Unit. 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 Arkansas Department of Corrections, McPherson Women's Unit. 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 Arkansas Department of Corrections, McPherson Women's Unit?

   Mailing address:

   Arkansas Department of Corrections, McPherson Women's Unit
   302 Corrections Dr
   Newport, AR 72112
   Phone: (870) 523-2639

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Wednesday: Closed
   • Thursday: 7:15 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Arkansas Department of Corrections, McPherson Women's Unit?

   Visiting hours at Arkansas Department of Corrections, McPherson Women's Unit 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 (870) 523-2639 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 Arkansas Department of Corrections, McPherson Women's Unit?

   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 Arkansas Department of Corrections, McPherson Women's Unit for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Arkansas Department of Corrections, McPherson Women's Unit?

   You can send money to an inmate at Arkansas Department of Corrections, McPherson Women's Unit 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 Arkansas Department of Corrections, McPherson Women's Unit?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Arkansas Department of Corrections, McPherson Women's Unit, 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 Arkansas Department of Corrections, McPherson Women's Unit?

   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 Arkansas Department of Corrections, McPherson Women's Unit 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 Arkansas Department of Corrections, McPherson Women's Unit, 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

The McPherson Unit operates as Arkansas’s dedicated female intake facility, processing new arrivals into the state correctional system while providing comprehensive rehabilitation programming. Established in 1998 and maintaining ACA accreditation, this 1,050-capacity facility located northeast of Newport offers specialized treatment programs including the Sex Offender Female Treatment Program (SOFT) and the Substance Abuse Therapeutic Community Program (TC), alongside traditional Substance Abuse Treatment Program (SATP) services and Alcoholics Anonymous/Narcotics Anonymous meetings.

Educational and vocational opportunities form a cornerstone of the facility’s programming, with GED instruction provided through Arkansas State University partnership and vocational-technical training in cosmetology, horticulture, computerized accounting, and business technology. The facility operates agricultural programs focused on vegetable processing and gardening, while the Prison Industry Enhancement (PIE) program may provide work experience and job skills training. Additional programming includes life skills development, parenting classes, and mental health group sessions to address various rehabilitation needs.

The facility typically supports family connections and personal development through programs like the Story Book Project, which may allow incarcerated individuals to record stories for their children, and the Quilts for Babies initiative. Recreational programming, hobby craft activities, and the Dance 2B Free program often provide constructive outlets for personal expression and physical activity. Library and law library services support educational pursuits and legal research needs, while the Think Legacy Program and MIWATCH may focus on personal development and behavioral change. The facility’s Residential Program Unit likely provides specialized housing and intensive programming for those requiring additional support during their rehabilitation process.

Daily Life & Visitation

The morning bell at McPherson Unit signals the start of another structured day for the facility’s 1,050 residents, located four miles northeast of Newport in Jackson County. Established in 1998 as an ACA-accredited facility, the unit operates with a comprehensive schedule that balances security requirements with rehabilitation programming and daily necessities.

Residents typically begin their day with count procedures and meal service, followed by work assignments or program participation. The facility offers extensive vocational training opportunities including cosmetology, horticulture, computerized accounting, and business technology programs through their Vo-Tech division. Many residents may participate in the Agriculture Program, working in vegetable processing and gardening operations, while others engage in the Prison Industry Enhancement (PIE) program or regional maintenance duties. Educational opportunities include GED classes through Arkansas State University, and the facility maintains both a general library and law library for research and personal development.

Throughout the week, residents can participate in various therapeutic and life skills programs, including Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous meetings, mental health groups, and specialized programs like the Substance Abuse Therapeutic Community Program. The facility also offers comprehensive programs such as Dance 2B Free, the Story Book Project for maintaining family connections, and Quilts for Babies. Recreational programming provides structured leisure time, while hobby craft activities allow for creative expression. Family members can stay connected by adding funds to inmates’ Trust Accounts or Pre-Pay Phone Service Accounts through the online system, though the facility will discontinue accepting paper money orders after May 31, 2025. Evening hours typically include additional programming, study time, or recreational activities before the final count and lights-out procedures.