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 Bladen County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Bladen County Jail 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 Bladen County Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Bladen County Jail

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 Bladen County Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Bladen County Jail?

   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 Bladen County Jail?

   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 Bladen County Jail. 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 Bladen County Jail. 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 Bladen County Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Bladen County Jail
   105 Courthouse Dr
   Elizabethtown, NC 28337
   

5. What are the visiting hours at Bladen County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Bladen County Jail 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 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 Bladen County Jail?

   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 Bladen County Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Bladen County Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Bladen County Jail 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 Bladen County Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Bladen County Jail, 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 Bladen County Jail?

   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 Bladen County Jail 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 Bladen County Jail, 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

Educational services form the foundation of rehabilitation efforts, with residents typically participating in literacy programs and GED preparation courses. These initiatives often focus on building essential academic skills that many participants may have missed during their earlier education. The facility's approach emphasizes practical learning that directly connects to future employment opportunities and personal development goals.

Vocational training initiatives may deliver hands-on instruction in construction trades, automotive repair, and food service preparation. These programs typically combine classroom instruction with practical application, allowing residents to develop marketable skills during their time at the facility. Furthermore, educational services often include computer literacy courses and basic math instruction, which complement the vocational offerings and prepare participants for both employment and continued learning after release.

Support services and therapeutic initiatives address the underlying issues that often contribute to criminal behavior. Substance abuse programs may offer group counseling sessions and educational workshops about addiction recovery. Additionally, recreational activities like intramural sports provide healthy outlets for stress and help build teamwork skills among residents. Creative programs such as painting and decorating, along with practical training in plumbing, typically serve dual purposes by teaching useful skills while providing constructive ways to spend time and build confidence in personal abilities.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured wake-up calls currently mark the beginning of each day for residents, who follow established routines that continue throughout their stay. The facility operates on a predictable schedule that typically includes designated times for meals, programming, recreation, and rest periods. This consistent framework generally helps residents adapt to their environment while maintaining personal responsibility and accountability.

Housing units at the facility are designed to accommodate residents in various configurations, with sleeping areas that may include individual cells or dormitory-style arrangements depending on classification levels. Residents typically receive three meals daily in designated dining areas, with menus that generally meet basic nutritional requirements. Personal property allowances usually include essential items, while commissary services may offer additional purchases for those with available funds.

Furthermore, the facility often provides recreational opportunities that deliver both physical activity and social interaction within supervised settings. Work assignments typically include maintenance duties, kitchen operations, and facility upkeep that help residents develop routine and contribute to daily operations. Although visitation policies may vary based on security requirements, family connections generally remain available through scheduled visits and telephone communications. Programming schedules usually incorporate educational opportunities, life skills development, and other structured activities designed to support positive outcomes during residents' time at the facility.