Send Photos & Mail at Avenal State Prison

How to send messages, photos, and packages

Overview

For public inquiries, call Richard J. Donovan Corr. Facility at (916) 985-8610. California's prison system is transitioning to a single statewide communications provider for phone calls, video visits, and electronic messaging. Standard audio calls from institution phones and tablets are generally free. Video visits and electronic messaging usually require creating an account on the department's communications platform—either through the website or mobile app. Before scheduling a video visit or sending messages, you'll typically need to add prepaid funds through the app's prepaid/AdvanceConnect feature. The statewide rollout is still in progress, and some institutions remain on an older vendor platform. Confirm which platform this facility currently supports before funding your account or scheduling anything.

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Quick Facts

  • Public phone number for the facility: (916) 985-8610.
  • You must create an account on the department’s communications platform (web or mobile) to use video visits or electronic messaging.
  • Prepaid funds are typically required for video visits; use the app’s prepaid/AdvanceConnect feature to add funds.
  • During the statewide rollout, some institutions remain on older vendor platforms—verify which platform the facility currently supports before scheduling.
  • Incoming and outgoing mail is inspected and screened for contraband; legal mail is typically handled separately and is not read during contraband checks.

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Common Questions

How do I call Richard J. Donovan Corr. Facility?

Call the facility’s public number at (916) 985-8610 for general inquiries.

Do I need an account to send video messages or use electronic messaging?

Yes. Create and register an account on the department’s communications platform (web or mobile), and add prepaid funds if required before using video or electronic messaging.

Has Richard J. Donovan Corr. Facility switched to the new statewide communications provider?

California is transitioning to a statewide provider, but some facilities remain on the older platform during the rollout. Confirm which platform this site currently supports before scheduling visits.

How should I address mail to an inmate at Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility?

Address the envelope with the person’s full booked name and the facility identifier (such as a booking number, X-reference, or PFN). Always include your printed return name and address so undeliverable mail can be sent back.

Will my letter be opened and read before it reaches the person inside?

Non-legal mail is commonly inspected and may be opened to check for contraband. Legal mail is typically handled separately and is not read during contraband screening to preserve confidentiality.

Can I send photos or decorated cards to someone in custody?

Photos and decorated or multilayer cards are often restricted. Many facilities ban Polaroids, glitter, stickers, and glued layers. For the best chance of delivery, stick to plain, single-layer stationery and standard printed photos within the facility's limits.

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