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 Central California Women's Facility.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Central California Women's 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 Central California Women's Facility.

Frequently asked questions about Central California Women's 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 Central California Women's Facility.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Central California Women's 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 Central California Women's 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 Central California Women's 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 Central California Women's 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 Central California Women's Facility?

   Mailing address:

   Central California Women's Facility
   23370 Rd 22
   Chowchilla, CA 93610
   Phone: (559) 665-5531

   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 Central California Women's Facility?

   Visiting hours at Central California Women's 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 (559) 665-5531 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 Central California Women's 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 Central California Women's Facility for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Central California Women's Facility?

   You can send money to an inmate at Central California Women's 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 Central California Women's Facility?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Central California Women's 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 Central California Women's 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 Central California Women's 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 Central California Women's 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

The Central California Women's Facility in Chowchilla operates comprehensive educational and vocational programs designed to support successful reentry into the community. Academic offerings include Adult Basic Education, High School/GED preparation, and a College Degree Program provided through Feather River Community College, along with literacy programs and pre-release preparation courses. Vocational training encompasses diverse fields such as auto body repair and refinishing, computer technology, cosmetology, electronics, and office services, providing practical skills for post-release employment opportunities.

The facility's Prison Industry Authority (PIA) programs offer hands-on work experience in dental laboratory operations, fabric products manufacturing, farming, garment making, and silk screening. A notable Joint Venture Electronics program employs approximately 45 individuals in electronics manufacturing, providing prevailing wages with deductions allocated toward room and board, victim compensation, family support, and mandatory savings for release. Additionally, the facility typically may offer community service crews that allow participants to contribute to local community projects while developing work skills and civic responsibility.

Comprehensive support services address various aspects of rehabilitation and personal development. The Integrated Substance Use Disorder Treatment (ISUDT) program, implemented in 2020 through collaboration between CDCR and California Correctional Health Care Services, provides evidence-based treatment for substance abuse issues. Other programming often includes religious services, Arts in Corrections creative programs, Victim Impact Self Awareness courses, parenting classes, and various self-help groups such as Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous. Job placement assistance and youth diversion programs may also be available to support successful community reintegration and reduce recidivism rates.

Daily Life & Visitation

Women housed at Central California Women's Facility in Chowchilla begin their days within a structured environment that balances security requirements with opportunities for personal growth and family connection. The facility operates comprehensive programs throughout the week, with inmates participating in various vocational training sessions including auto body repair, cosmetology, and computer technology, while others may work in the dental laboratory or garment manufacturing areas as part of the Prison Industry Authority programs.

Communication with loved ones typically follows established protocols, with families able to send correspondence to inmates at P.O. Box 1508, Chowchilla, CA 93610, ensuring the inmate's name and CDCR number are included for proper delivery. Visitation opportunities provide crucial family connections, though specific scheduling and procedures may vary based on security levels and current facility policies. The facility also supports various self-help programs including Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, which often occur during evening hours or weekends.

Educational pursuits form a significant portion of daily activities, with women participating in Adult Basic Education, GED preparation, or college-level coursework through partnerships with community colleges. The facility's Integrated Substance Use Disorder Treatment program, implemented in 2020, provides comprehensive support for those addressing addiction issues. Additionally, community service crews, religious services, and Arts in Corrections programs offer diverse ways for inmates to spend their time constructively while developing skills that may benefit their eventual reintegration into society.