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 Blackwater River Correctional Facility.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Blackwater River Correctional Facility 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 Blackwater River Correctional Facility.

Frequently asked questions about Blackwater River Correctional Facility

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 Blackwater River Correctional Facility.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Blackwater River Correctional Facility?

   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 Blackwater River Correctional Facility?

   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 Blackwater River Correctional Facility. 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 Blackwater River Correctional Facility. 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 Blackwater River Correctional Facility?

   Mailing address:

   Blackwater River Correctional Facility
   5914 Jeff Ates Rd
   Milton, FL 32583
   Phone: (850) 983-4100

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
   • Thursday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
   • Friday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
   • Saturday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
   • Sunday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Blackwater River Correctional Facility?

   Visiting hours at Blackwater River Correctional Facility 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 (850) 983-4100 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 Blackwater River Correctional Facility?

   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 Blackwater River Correctional Facility for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Blackwater River Correctional Facility?

   You can send money to an inmate at Blackwater River Correctional Facility 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 Blackwater River Correctional Facility?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Blackwater River Correctional Facility, 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 Blackwater River Correctional Facility?

   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 Blackwater River Correctional Facility 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 Blackwater River Correctional Facility, 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 growth and skill development form the foundation of rehabilitation services at Blackwater River C.F. The facility typically emphasizes practical learning opportunities that help inmates build confidence and prepare for successful reintegration. Services are designed to address multiple aspects of personal development, from basic education to specialized vocational training.

Educational services often include basic literacy programs and GED preparation to help inmates complete their high school education. ESL programs may provide English language instruction for non-native speakers, supporting better communication skills and future employment opportunities. Furthermore, construction trades training typically offers hands-on vocational experience in areas such as carpentry, electrical work, and general construction skills. These programs often focus on industry-standard practices that may lead to employment opportunities upon release.

Work release services may provide eligible inmates with supervised employment opportunities in the community while maintaining facility residence. This program typically helps participants develop work experience and earn income to support their families and prepare for release. Furthermore, substance abuse treatment services often address addiction issues through counseling and educational components. These therapeutic services may include group sessions and individual counseling to help inmates develop coping strategies and maintain sobriety after release.

Daily Life & Visitation

The housing units at Blackwater River Correctional Facility feature dormitory-style accommodations where inmates navigate shared living spaces with multiple bunks per room. At present, the daily structure revolves around scheduled count times, meal periods, and work assignments that actively organize each day from early morning wake-up calls through evening lockdown procedures. Inmates typically adapt to this routine-driven environment by establishing personal schedules within the facility’s framework.

Living conditions generally include basic furnishings such as metal bunks, lockers for personal property, and shared bathroom facilities within each housing unit. Furthermore, inmates may purchase additional items through the commissary system to supplement their basic necessities and improve their living situation. Although space remains limited, inmates often personalize their immediate sleeping areas with approved photographs and correspondence from family members.

The facility provides structured programming schedules that include educational classes, vocational training opportunities, and recreational activities in designated areas. Work assignments typically range from kitchen duties and maintenance tasks to laundry operations, giving inmates productive ways to spend their time while developing useful skills. Additionally, visitation policies allow for regular family contact through scheduled visits and telephone calls, helping inmates maintain important connections with their support systems outside the facility walls.