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 Birmingham Work Release.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Birmingham Work Release 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 Birmingham Work Release.

Frequently asked questions about Birmingham Work Release

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 Birmingham Work Release.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Birmingham Work Release?

   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 Birmingham Work Release?

   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 Birmingham Work Release. 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 Birmingham Work Release. 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 Birmingham Work Release?

   Mailing address:

   Birmingham Work Release
   1216 25th St N
   Birmingham, AL 35234
   Phone: (205) 252-2994

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Open 24 hours
   • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
   • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
   • Thursday: Open 24 hours
   • Friday: Open 24 hours
   • Saturday: Open 24 hours
   • Sunday: Open 24 hours

5. What are the visiting hours at Birmingham Work Release?

   Visiting hours at Birmingham Work Release 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 (205) 252-2994 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 Birmingham Work Release?

   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 Birmingham Work Release for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Birmingham Work Release?

   You can send money to an inmate at Birmingham Work Release 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 Birmingham Work Release?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Birmingham Work Release, 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 Birmingham Work Release?

   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 Birmingham Work Release 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 Birmingham Work Release, 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

A wide spectrum of reintegration opportunities creates pathways for individuals to rebuild their lives and strengthen their connections to the community. The facility's approach emphasizes practical skill development alongside personal growth, recognizing that successful reentry requires both professional competencies and strong support systems. This comprehensive framework addresses multiple aspects of an individual's transition back into society.

Educational opportunities typically form the foundation of personal development at the facility. Academic programming may include basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and continuing education courses designed to strengthen fundamental skills. These educational initiatives often focus on practical knowledge that directly supports employment readiness and long-term stability in the community.

Moreover, support services provide essential resources for addressing personal challenges and building healthy lifestyle patterns. Work release opportunities allow individuals to maintain employment while completing their sentences, creating valuable workforce connections and financial stability. Faith-based programming may offer spiritual guidance and community support, while healthy relationships courses typically address communication skills and conflict resolution. Recreation programs often include physical fitness activities and structured leisure time that promotes overall wellness and positive social interaction during the reintegration process.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of alarm clocks echoes through housing units as individuals prepare for another day that bridges confinement and community employment. At present, residents at Birmingham Work Release actively maintain structured schedules that revolve around their approved jobs in the surrounding area, typically departing early in the morning and returning by evening. The facility generally operates on a system where individuals transition between supervised housing and workplace responsibilities, creating a routine that emphasizes accountability and preparation for full reintegration.

Living accommodations typically consist of dormitory-style housing units where individuals share sleeping quarters with multiple roommates. The facility usually provides basic furnishings including beds, lockers for personal belongings, and common areas for meals and recreation. Moreover, individuals generally have access to commissary services where they can purchase approved personal items and snacks using funds from their work earnings. Dining arrangements often include scheduled meal times in a communal setting, with breakfast served before work departures and dinner available upon return from employment.

Recreation and exercise opportunities may offer structure during non-working hours, often including television viewing areas, outdoor recreation time, and basic fitness equipment. Whereas movement is more restricted than in the community, individuals typically maintain contact with family members through scheduled phone calls and may receive visits during designated hours. The work release program generally allows participants to earn income while serving their sentences, with portions often allocated toward restitution, support obligations, and personal savings for their eventual release.