How to send messages, photos, and packages
California Institution for Women (CIW) is switching to Securus, the statewide communications provider for CDCR facilities. Securus says calls, videoconferencing, and electronic messaging will roll out starting in September. You can open a Securus account now—free telephone calls don't require one, but video visits and electronic messaging will once those services launch. For videoconference visits, add funds through AdvanceConnect for prepaid sessions and register for Securus Video Connect. During registration, select
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
Trying to send a care package to someone at the California Institution for Women (CIW)? Here's the catch: you can't mail quarterly packages yourself. They have to go through CDCR-approved vendors.
No. You do not need a Securus account for free telephone calls, but Securus says you’ll need an account for video visits and electronic messaging once those services launch.
Add funds through AdvanceConnect for prepaid videoconferences and register for Securus Video Connect. During registration, select “Permitir videollamadas” to enable video visits.
Securus says calls, videoconferencing, and electronic messaging will roll out starting in September. Securus is the designated communications provider for CDCR facilities.
Use the incarcerated person's full booked name and the identifier required by the institution—a booking number, X-reference, or PFN. Put your printed return name and address on every piece of mail. It will go through the facility's processing steps before delivery.
Legal mail gets special handling and isn't read during routine contraband inspections. This protects attorney–client correspondence while still allowing necessary security screening.
Hard-to-inspect items like glitter, stickers, and multilayer cards are often prohibited. Photos are usually limited by size and number—Polaroids and sexually explicit images are commonly disallowed. Sending money? Follow the facility's rules and use approved methods like money orders.
CIW is switching phone and tablet services from ViaPath to Securus on a set schedule. Here's what's happening when — and what you can do now so you're not caught off guard during the changeover.
If you use video calls, e-messages, or photos at California Institution for Women (CIW), the switch from ViaPath to Securus works in your favor. Here are the exact rate differences—plus a few scenarios to help you estimate your monthly savings.
Securus handles communications for CDCR facilities, including California Institution for Women (CIW). Setting up your account now means you'll be ready for video visits the moment they become available—no last-minute scrambling required.
