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 Coles County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Coles 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 Coles County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Coles County Jail
   701 7th St
   Charleston, IL 61920
   

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Wednesday: Closed
   • Thursday: Closed
   • Friday: Closed
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Coles County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Coles 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 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 Coles 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 Coles County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Coles 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 Coles 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 Coles 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 Coles 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 this facility center on providing residents with practical skills and therapeutic support that address underlying issues contributing to incarceration. The approach typically emphasizes personal development through structured learning opportunities and counseling services. These initiatives may deliver comprehensive support designed to help residents build healthier coping mechanisms and develop job-ready skills for successful community reintegration.

Educational services often include basic literacy programs, GED preparation, and computer skills training that help residents advance their academic credentials. Vocational programs may offer hands-on training in trades such as painting and decorating, providing residents with marketable skills they can use upon release. These educational and vocational initiatives typically focus on building both technical competencies and workplace readiness skills that increase employment prospects.

Furthermore, therapeutic initiatives may deliver mental health treatment through individual and group counseling sessions that address addiction, trauma, and behavioral issues. Support services often include programming focused on developing healthy relationships, teaching residents communication skills and conflict resolution techniques. These therapeutic and support initiatives typically work together to help residents develop emotional regulation skills and build positive social connections that support long-term stability in the community.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured routines form the backbone of life within the facility, with residents following consistent schedules that begin early each morning and continue throughout the day. Today's activities typically include designated meal times, recreation periods, and various programming opportunities that deliver stability and predictability. This framework generally helps residents adapt to their environment while maintaining important daily habits and routines.

Living accommodations at the facility usually consist of shared housing units where residents are assigned beds and storage space for approved personal items. Meals are typically served in common dining areas at scheduled times, with menus that generally meet basic nutritional requirements. Furthermore, residents may have access to commissary services where they can purchase additional food items and personal care products, subject to facility guidelines and available funds.

Recreation and exercise opportunities often include outdoor time when weather permits, along with indoor activities that may feature television viewing, reading materials, and structured programs. Although visitation schedules vary, the facility typically provides opportunities for residents to maintain contact with family members through scheduled visits and phone calls. Work assignments within the facility may be available to eligible residents, offering structure and responsibility while contributing to daily operations. These various elements work together to create an environment where residents can maintain connections with loved ones while participating in structured daily activities.