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 Institution for Women (CIW).

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at California Institution for Women (CIW) 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 Institution for Women (CIW).

Frequently asked questions about California Institution for Women (CIW)

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 Institution for Women (CIW).

2. How much does it cost to send a message to California Institution for Women (CIW)?

   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 Institution for Women (CIW)?

   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 Institution for Women (CIW). 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 Institution for Women (CIW). 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 Institution for Women (CIW)?

   Mailing address:

   California Institution for Women (CIW)
   16756 Chino Corona Rd
   Chino, CA 91708
   Phone: (909) 597-1771

   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 Institution for Women (CIW)?

   Visiting hours at California Institution for Women (CIW) 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 (909) 597-1771 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 Institution for Women (CIW)?

   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 Institution for Women (CIW) for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at California Institution for Women (CIW)?

   You can send money to an inmate at California Institution for Women (CIW) 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 Institution for Women (CIW)?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At California Institution for Women (CIW), 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 Institution for Women (CIW)?

   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 Institution for Women (CIW) 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 Institution for Women (CIW), 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

The California Institution for Women (CIW) provides extensive educational opportunities through partnerships with multiple colleges, allowing incarcerated individuals to pursue associate degrees through Chaffey College, Coastline Community College, Palo Verde College, and Feather River College, as well as bachelor’s and master’s degrees through Adam’s State University. The facility’s academic programming spans from foundational Adult Basic Education and GED preparation to advanced degree programs, while the Enhanced Outpatient Program addresses mental health needs alongside educational goals.

Vocational training at CIW emphasizes technology and practical skills development, including computer training, data processing, and The Last Mile Coding Program, which prepares participants for careers in the technology sector. The facility also offers cosmetology training and building maintenance programs, while the Prison Industries Authority operates clothing and textile manufacturing operations producing various garments and specialized items like Nomex firefighting clothing. These programs may provide valuable work experience and job skills for successful reentry into the community.

Specialized rehabilitation programs address substance use disorders through the Integrated Substance Use Disorder Treatment program, while the Alpha Faith-Based Re-entry program typically incorporates spiritual elements into rehabilitation efforts. The facility may also offer the Prison Puppy program, victim awareness classes, and forestry/camp training opportunities. Additional support services likely include counseling programs, library services, recreational activities, and family support resources to help maintain connections with loved ones during incarceration. Healthcare services, including medical and mental health care, are typically available to address the comprehensive needs of the population.

Daily Life & Visitation

The morning bell at California Institution for Women in Corona signals the start of another structured day for incarcerated individuals who may find themselves heading to the Prison Industries Authority workshops to manufacture clothing and textiles, including everything from everyday shirts and jeans to specialized Nomex firefighting gear. Others begin their day in academic classrooms pursuing degrees through partnerships with multiple colleges, including Chaffey College and Coastline Community College for associate degrees, or working toward bachelor’s and master’s degrees through Adam’s State University. The facility’s comprehensive programming means that residents typically have scheduled activities throughout the day, whether attending vocational training in cosmetology or computer programming through The Last Mile Coding Program, participating in substance use disorder treatment, or working in construction and building maintenance roles.

Maintaining connections with family and friends remains a vital part of the daily experience at CIW. The facility processes correspondence sent to 16756 Chino-Corona Road in Corona, and loved ones may visit following the institution’s established visitation procedures. Money orders for commissary purchases also flow through the same mailing address, allowing families to support their incarcerated relatives. Between scheduled programming, residents often participate in faith-based reentry programs, work with therapy animals through the Prison Puppy program, or engage in victim awareness initiatives that help prepare them for successful community reintegration.

Evening hours typically provide time for personal reflection, letter writing, and preparation for the next day’s activities. Whether someone is completing homework for their college courses, practicing skills learned in vocational training, or participating in Enhanced Outpatient Program services, the structured environment at CIW aims to provide multiple pathways for personal growth and development during incarceration.