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 Blue Ridge Regional Jail Auth.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Blue Ridge Regional Jail Auth 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 Blue Ridge Regional Jail Auth.

Frequently asked questions about Blue Ridge Regional Jail Auth

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 Blue Ridge Regional Jail Auth.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Blue Ridge Regional Jail Auth?

   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 Blue Ridge Regional Jail Auth?

   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 Blue Ridge Regional Jail Auth. 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 Blue Ridge Regional Jail Auth. 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 Blue Ridge Regional Jail Auth?

   Mailing address:

   Blue Ridge Regional Jail Auth
   510 9th St
   Lynchburg, VA 24504
   Phone: (434) 847-1300

   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 Blue Ridge Regional Jail Auth?

   Visiting hours at Blue Ridge Regional Jail Auth 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 (434) 847-1300 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 Blue Ridge Regional Jail Auth?

   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 Blue Ridge Regional Jail Auth for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Blue Ridge Regional Jail Auth?

   You can send money to an inmate at Blue Ridge Regional Jail Auth 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 Blue Ridge Regional Jail Auth?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Blue Ridge Regional Jail Auth, 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 Blue Ridge Regional Jail Auth?

   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 Blue Ridge Regional Jail Auth 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 Blue Ridge Regional Jail Auth, 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 a comprehensive framework of evidence-based interventions, support is provided to help the population develop essential life skills and address underlying behavioral patterns. The facility's approach centers on creating pathways for personal growth while building the foundation necessary for successful community reintegration. Programs are designed to address multiple areas of need simultaneously, recognizing that effective rehabilitation requires addressing both practical skills and psychological wellness.

Educational opportunities typically include basic literacy instruction and GED preparation, allowing participants to complete their high school equivalency while incarcerated. Vocational training programs may supply hands-on experience in trades such as carpentry, plumbing, or food service, equipping the population with marketable skills for employment upon release. These educational and vocational initiatives often includes partnerships with local employers who may offer job placement assistance, helping to bridge the gap between incarceration and meaningful employment in the community.

Furthermore, therapeutic and support services address the behavioral and emotional challenges that often contribute to criminal behavior. Anger management programs help participants develop healthy coping strategies and communication skills, while cognitive behavioral programs focus on changing thought patterns that lead to destructive choices. The facility may supply domestic violence intervention programs for those with relevant histories, and volunteer programs often provide additional mentorship and community connections. Facility maintenance work assignments give the population opportunities to develop work ethic and responsibility while contributing to the operation of their living environment, fostering a sense of purpose and community investment.

Daily Life & Visitation

Systematic organization shapes every aspect of the experience for the population at Nottoway Work Center, where structured routines now provide predictability and purpose throughout each day. The facility operates on a regimented schedule that typically begins with early morning counts and continues through regularly scheduled meals, work assignments, and evening activities. Population members generally follow established protocols for movement between housing units and work areas, with staff supervision maintaining order and security throughout daily operations.

Living accommodations typically feature dormitory-style housing units that accommodate multiple residents in shared spaces. The population usually maintains personal areas within these units, storing approved personal property and commissary items according to facility guidelines. Furthermore, dining arrangements generally involve scheduled meal times in common areas, where the population gathers for breakfast, lunch, and dinner served at designated hours. Although space may be limited, recreational opportunities often supply structure during non-work hours, with access to exercise areas, television rooms, and outdoor recreation when weather permits.

Work assignments typically form the cornerstone of daily life, as the population participates in various facility jobs and structured programming schedules that may include educational classes, vocational training, or treatment programs. These activities generally supply both skill development and routine structure throughout the week. Furthermore, visitation policies usually allow for regular family contact through scheduled visits and telephone privileges, helping maintain important connections with loved ones. Although communication options may include written correspondence and approved phone calls, the population typically follows established procedures for all external contact to ensure facility security and operational efficiency.