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 Chelan County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Chelan County Jail 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 Chelan County Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Chelan County Jail

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 Chelan County Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Chelan County Jail?

   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 Chelan County Jail?

   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 Chelan County Jail. 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 Chelan County Jail. 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 Chelan County Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Chelan County Jail
   401 Washington St
   Wenatchee, WA 98801
   Phone: (509) 667-6462

   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 Chelan County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Chelan County Jail 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 (509) 667-6462 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 Chelan County Jail?

   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 Chelan County Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Chelan County Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Chelan County Jail 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 Chelan County Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Chelan County Jail, 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 Chelan County Jail?

   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 Chelan County Jail 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 Chelan County Jail, 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

Rehabilitation-focused initiatives at Chelan County Jail typically center on preparing residents for successful community reintegration through skill development and personal growth opportunities. The facility often emphasizes a comprehensive approach that addresses both practical skills and personal development needs. These initiatives may deliver structured programming designed to help residents build confidence while acquiring valuable life skills.

Educational services form a cornerstone of the facility's programming, often including basic literacy instruction and GED preparation courses. Vocational programs may offer hands-on training in various trades, with some initiatives potentially including specialized certifications such as forklift operation training. Additionally, work programs typically provide residents with opportunities to develop job readiness skills and maintain structured daily routines that mirror employment expectations in the community.

Support services often encompass creative and therapeutic initiatives designed to address emotional well-being and self-expression. Music programs may deliver opportunities for residents to explore artistic talents while building social connections with peers. Arts and crafts initiatives typically offer constructive outlets for creativity and stress management. Additionally, reentry preparation services often include practical life skills training, covering topics such as job search strategies, housing assistance, and community resource navigation to help residents successfully transition back into their communities.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structure begins each morning with consistent wake-up calls that establish the foundation for residents' daily activities at Chelan County Jail. Today typically unfolds with scheduled meal times, supervised recreation periods, and organized programming that delivers predictable routines throughout the facility. Generally, residents participate in work assignments that may include kitchen duties, cleaning responsibilities, or maintenance tasks that help maintain facility operations while providing purposeful activity.

Housing arrangements typically consist of shared cells or dormitory-style units where residents store personal belongings and rest during designated hours. Meals are usually served in common dining areas at scheduled times, with residents following established procedures for movement between housing units and dining facilities. Additionally, commissary services may be available on designated days, allowing residents to purchase approved personal items and snacks to supplement their basic needs.

While daily schedules provide structure, recreational opportunities often include access to television viewing areas, reading materials, and supervised outdoor time when weather and facility conditions permit. Visitation policies generally allow family members to maintain contact through scheduled visits, and phone privileges may be available during specific hours to help residents stay connected with their support systems. Programming schedules typically include educational opportunities, counseling sessions, or other structured activities designed to provide constructive use of time during incarceration.