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 Columbia Correctional Institution.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Columbia Correctional Institution 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 Columbia Correctional Institution.

Frequently asked questions about Columbia Correctional Institution

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 Columbia Correctional Institution.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Columbia Correctional Institution?

   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 Columbia Correctional Institution?

   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 Columbia Correctional Institution. 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 Columbia Correctional Institution. 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 Columbia Correctional Institution?

   Mailing address:

   Columbia Correctional Institution
   216 SE Corrections Way
   Lake City, FL 32025
   Phone: (386) 754-7600

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Thursday: Open 24 hours
   • Friday: Closed
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Columbia Correctional Institution?

   Visiting hours at Columbia Correctional Institution 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 (386) 754-7600 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 Columbia Correctional Institution?

   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 Columbia Correctional Institution for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Columbia Correctional Institution?

   You can send money to an inmate at Columbia Correctional Institution 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 Columbia Correctional Institution?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Columbia Correctional Institution, 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 Columbia Correctional Institution?

   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 Columbia Correctional Institution 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 Columbia Correctional Institution, 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 breadth of developmental opportunities at Columbia Correctional Institution reflects a comprehensive approach to individual growth and community preparation. This facility typically recognizes that meaningful change requires multiple pathways for personal development. The institution often provides a structured environment where individuals can engage in various programs designed to address different aspects of their rehabilitation journey.

Educational opportunities form a cornerstone of the facility's comprehensive programming. Individuals may participate in basic literacy courses, GED preparation, and vocational training programs that focus on practical skills development. These educational initiatives often include computer literacy training and job readiness workshops. The facility typically emphasizes hands-on learning experiences that prepare participants for successful community reintegration. Moreover, vocational programs may cover areas such as construction trades, food service, and maintenance skills that align with local employment opportunities.

Support services and therapeutic opportunities complement the educational framework through targeted interventions. The institution often provides substance abuse treatment programs that address addiction-related challenges through counseling and group therapy sessions. Work release programs may offer eligible individuals the chance to maintain employment while completing their sentences. Additionally, the facility typically includes specialized services such as veteran-specific programming for former military personnel and music programs that provide creative outlets for personal expression. These diverse therapeutic and support opportunities work together to address the varied needs of the population served.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of meal preparation typically marks the beginning of each day for individuals housed at Columbia Correctional Institution. Daily routines currently follow a structured schedule that continues to emphasize security protocols while providing opportunities for personal development. Individuals generally wake early for count procedures, followed by breakfast service and work assignments or programming activities. The facility typically maintains consistent meal times, with lunch and dinner served at regular intervals throughout the day.

Living accommodations at the facility generally consist of housing units designed to manage different custody levels and population needs. Individuals typically share cells or dormitory-style housing, with personal property allowances that may include basic toiletries, approved clothing, and limited personal items. Moreover, the commissary system usually allows individuals to purchase additional food items, hygiene products, and approved personal goods using funds from their institutional accounts. Cell assignments often consider factors such as security classification, behavior history, and program participation.

Work assignments and structured programming schedules offer individuals various ways to spend their time productively. Facility jobs typically include kitchen duties, maintenance work, laundry services, and groundskeeping responsibilities. Whereas work provides structure and potential skill development, recreational activities generally include access to outdoor exercise areas, indoor recreation spaces, and library services. Visitation policies usually allow family members and approved visitors to maintain contact through scheduled visits, while telephone and correspondence systems typically provide additional communication options. Programming may offer educational opportunities, substance abuse treatment, and other rehabilitative services designed to support successful reintegration.