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 BATEN UNIT.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at BATEN 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 BATEN UNIT.

Frequently asked questions about BATEN 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 BATEN UNIT.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to BATEN 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 BATEN 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 BATEN 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 BATEN 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 BATEN UNIT?

   Mailing address:

   BATEN UNIT
   1995 Helton Rd
   Pampa, TX 79065
   Phone: (806) 665-7070

5. What are the visiting hours at BATEN UNIT?

   Visiting hours at BATEN 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 (806) 665-7070 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 BATEN 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 BATEN UNIT for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at BATEN UNIT?

   You can send money to an inmate at BATEN 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 BATEN UNIT?

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

Through comprehensive programming designed to address multiple aspects of personal development, support services at BATEN UNIT create pathways for meaningful change within the population. The facility's approach centers on building essential life skills while fostering connections that extend beyond incarceration. These programs typically emphasize practical preparation for successful community reintegration, recognizing that sustained support across various domains often produces the most effective outcomes for participants.

Educational opportunities may supply foundational learning through college correspondence courses, allowing the population to pursue higher education goals while maintaining their commitment to personal growth. Also available are vocational training programs that often focus on developing marketable skills in trades and technical fields. These educational initiatives typically work in tandem to provide both academic advancement and practical job preparation, creating multiple pathways for participants to build upon their existing knowledge base.

Work programs serve as cornerstone experiences that may supply structured daily routines while developing professional habits and responsibilities. Faith-based initiatives often provide spiritual guidance and community support networks that extend well beyond program completion. Also integrated into the supportive framework are conflict resolution services, which typically help participants develop healthier communication patterns and problem-solving strategies. Prison industries may offer hands-on work experience in various sectors, while community resource connections often facilitate important links between the population and external support systems that can assist with successful reintegration planning.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured schedules and clear organizational protocols shape every aspect of life for the population at the Baten Unit, creating predictable routines that define each day. Today typically begins with early morning count procedures, followed by meal service and work assignments that consistently maintain facility operations. The population generally moves through scheduled activities including educational programming, recreational periods, and structured downtime. These routines supply stability and purpose while ensuring security protocols are maintained throughout the facility.

Housing arrangements at the Baten Unit typically feature dormitory-style accommodations where the population resides in designated living areas. Each resident usually has access to basic personal storage space and shares common areas with others in their housing unit. Meals are generally served in a central dining facility at scheduled times, with the population moving in organized groups to maintain order and security. Also, commissary services may be available on designated days, allowing residents to purchase approved personal items and snacks to supplement their daily needs.

The facility often provides various recreational opportunities that supply both physical activity and social interaction for the population. Programming schedules typically include educational classes, vocational training, and structured recreational time in designated areas. However, all activities operate within established security guidelines and scheduled timeframes. Family connections remain important through regular visitation opportunities and communication options such as phone calls and correspondence. These programs generally aim to maintain family bonds while supporting the population's preparation for eventual reintegration into their communities.