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 California City Correctional Facility.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at California City 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 California City Correctional Facility.

Frequently asked questions about California City 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 California City Correctional Facility.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to California City 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 California City 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 California City 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 California City 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 California City Correctional Facility?

   Mailing address:

   California City Correctional Facility
   22844 Virginia Blvd
   California City, CA 93505
   Phone: (760) 246-7600

   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 California City Correctional Facility?

   Visiting hours at California City 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 (760) 246-7600 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 California City 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 California City Correctional Facility for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at California City Correctional Facility?

   You can send money to an inmate at California City 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 California City Correctional Facility?

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

From foundational education to specialized vocational training, the breadth of development opportunities at California City C.F. (CAC) reflects a comprehensive approach to individual growth and preparation for successful reintegration. The facility typically emphasizes skill-building across multiple areas, recognizing that individuals may benefit from different types of programming based on their backgrounds and goals. This multi-faceted approach often includes both structured learning environments and hands-on training experiences designed to build practical capabilities.

Educational initiatives at the facility may offer individuals opportunities to pursue basic literacy development, GED preparation, and continuing education coursework. Also available are vocational training opportunities that often include welding certification and commercial driving (CDL) preparation, providing individuals with marketable skills for employment upon release. These programs typically combine classroom instruction with practical application, allowing participants to develop both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience in their chosen fields.

Rehabilitation programs at CAC may offer structured pathways for personal development and behavioral change. Individual counseling services are typically available to help participants address underlying issues and develop coping strategies for successful community reintegration. Also included in the facility's offerings may be landscaping training, which often provides both vocational skills and opportunities for outdoor work experience. These support services generally work together to address the diverse needs of individuals and promote long-term success beyond incarceration.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of morning announcements typically marks the beginning of each day for individuals housed at California City Correctional Facility. At present, residents follow structured schedules that actively incorporate meals, work assignments, and programming activities throughout their daily routine. Count times occur regularly to maintain security protocols, while individuals generally have opportunities to participate in various facility operations and educational programs.

Housing units at the facility typically accommodate multiple individuals in dormitory-style or cell-based arrangements, depending on security classification levels. Personal property allowances usually include basic clothing, hygiene items, and limited personal effects that individuals may purchase through the commissary system. Also, common areas within housing units often provide spaces for recreation and social interaction during designated periods.

Work assignments may include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, laundry operations, and other facility support roles that offer structure and skill development opportunities. However, recreational activities typically encompass outdoor exercise periods, library access, and various programming options designed to support rehabilitation goals. Family connections remain important through scheduled visitation periods and telephone privileges, though specific policies may vary based on individual circumstances and facility guidelines. Also, correspondence through mail services generally provides another avenue for maintaining relationships with loved ones outside the facility.