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 Florida Reception Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Central Florida Reception Center 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 Florida Reception Center.

Frequently asked questions about Central Florida Reception Center

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 Florida Reception Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Central Florida Reception Center?

   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 Florida Reception Center?

   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 Florida Reception Center. 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 Florida Reception Center. 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 Florida Reception Center?

   Mailing address:

   Central Florida Reception Center
   7000 H C Kelley Rd
   Orlando, FL 32831
   Phone: (407) 207-7777

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
   • Thursday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
   • Friday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
   • Saturday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
   • Sunday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Central Florida Reception Center?

   Visiting hours at Central Florida Reception Center 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 (407) 207-7777 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 Florida Reception Center?

   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 Florida Reception Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Central Florida Reception Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Central Florida Reception Center 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 Florida Reception Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Central Florida Reception Center, 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 Florida Reception Center?

   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 Florida Reception Center 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 Florida Reception Center, 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

Through a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation, CFRC-MAIN provides structured support services designed to address the diverse needs of the population. The facility's programs typically focus on building essential life skills while fostering personal accountability and community connections. This supportive framework often includes opportunities for educational advancement, therapeutic intervention, and practical preparation for successful reintegration into society.

Educational programs may supply foundational learning opportunities that help participants develop critical academic and vocational skills. The population often has access to basic education services, including literacy development and high school equivalency preparation. Additionally, vocational training programs typically provide hands-on experience in various trade areas, allowing individuals to build marketable skills that support long-term employment goals upon release.

Support services and therapeutic programs form another essential component of the facility's offerings. Substance abuse treatment programs may supply counseling and group therapy sessions that address underlying issues contributing to criminal behavior. Additionally, work release programs often provide supervised employment opportunities in the community, while religious services typically offer spiritual guidance and community support. Restorative justice programs may also be available, helping participants understand the impact of their actions while developing empathy and accountability skills that benefit both personal growth and community healing.

Daily Life & Visitation

Organizational protocols shape every aspect of the population's experience, with structured schedules now governing movement between housing units, dining areas, and program facilities. The population regularly follows established routines that typically begin with morning count procedures and continue through designated meal times, work assignments, and recreational periods. Daily activities supply a framework that helps maintain order while providing opportunities for personal development and skill building.

Living accommodations generally consist of dormitory-style housing units or individual cells, depending on security classification and available space. The population typically shares common areas within their assigned units, with access to basic amenities like showers, telephones, and television areas during designated hours. Meals are usually served in centralized dining facilities at scheduled times, with the population moving in organized groups under staff supervision.

Additionally, structured programming schedules offer various activities including educational classes, vocational training, and recreational opportunities that may include outdoor exercise periods and organized sports. While maintaining security protocols, the facility typically provides visitation opportunities for approved family members and friends, along with telephone access and mail services to help the population maintain connections with their support systems. Work assignments often include facility maintenance, kitchen duties, and other operational tasks that supply both structure and potential job skills for the population.