Why You Can't Mail Packages Directly to Someone at CVSP
Trying to send a quarterly package to someone at Chuckawalla Valley State Prison (CVSP)? You can't mail it yourself. All quarterly packages must go through CDCR-authorized vendors.
At CVSP, you can't mail a quarterly package directly to your loved one. Every package has to come from an authorized vendor. Why the restriction? CDCR uses the vendor-only system to cut down on contraband and reduce the hours staff spend searching packages. When everything flows through approved vendors, the contents are standardized - fewer surprises, faster processing, and lower security risks.
Note: The vendor-only quarterly package policy is designed to reduce contraband and the time it takes staff to search packages headed into institutions like CVSP.
The rule is straightforward: buy the package from a CDCR-authorized vendor. You're not shipping a box from home - you're placing an order through a company CDCR has approved. That approval matters. Vendors need CDCR's sign-off before they can provide quarterly package services to any institution. If you're shopping around, make sure the vendor is actually on CDCR's approved list.
Have questions about which vendors are approved or how the approval process works? CDCR's contact for vendor inquiries is Lt. Victor Espinoza at Victor.Espinoza@cdcr.ca.gov.
Being on CDCR's approved list doesn't mean CDCR is vouching for the company. Their approval process is a basic review covering minimum security requirements and general business intent - nothing more. CDCR isn't affiliated with these vendors. They don't guarantee order fulfillment, product quality, or that a vendor will stay in business. Even when you follow all the rules, shop carefully. Keep your receipts and order confirmations.
- ✓ CDCR’s approval is based on a limited review focused on minimum security requirements and general business intent.
- ✓ CDCR is not affiliated with approved vendors.
- ✓ CDCR does not guarantee a vendor will fulfill obligations or perform as expected.
- ✓ CDCR does not guarantee a vendor will stay in business.
- ✓ CDCR does not guarantee the vendor’s products.
Here's another reason families often prefer vendor purchases: money you send directly to someone at CVSP can be subject to court-ordered restitution. But quarterly packages purchased through an approved vendor? Those aren't affected by restitution.
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