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 Columbus Correctional Institution.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Columbus 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 Columbus Correctional Institution.

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

   Mailing address:

   Columbus Correctional Institution
   1255 Prison Camp Rd
   Whiteville, NC 28472
   Phone: (910) 642-3285

   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 Columbus Correctional Institution?

   Visiting hours at Columbus 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 (910) 642-3285 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 Columbus 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 Columbus Correctional Institution for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Columbus 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 Columbus 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 Columbus 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 Columbus 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 expansive array of developmental opportunities at Columbus Correctional Institution reflects a multifaceted approach to individual growth and preparation for successful community reintegration. Rather than limiting focus to singular aspects of rehabilitation, the facility typically embraces a comprehensive framework that addresses educational advancement, vocational skill development, and personal enrichment through diverse programming initiatives. This holistic philosophy recognizes that meaningful transformation often emerges through exposure to varied learning experiences and support systems.

Educational services form a cornerstone of the institutional offerings, with individuals having access to academic programming designed to address diverse learning needs and educational backgrounds. Special education services may provide targeted support for those requiring individualized learning approaches, while vocational programs often focus on developing marketable skills that align with contemporary workforce demands. These educational opportunities typically emphasize both foundational knowledge acquisition and practical skill development, creating pathways for individuals to enhance their qualifications and expand their future employment prospects.

Additionally, the institution often incorporates faith-based initiatives that provide spiritual guidance and community connection for those seeking such support during their period of incarceration. Creative writing opportunities may offer individuals expressive outlets that foster self-reflection, communication skills, and personal growth through literary exploration. These complementary programming elements typically work in conjunction with other institutional services to create a comprehensive support network that addresses the varied interests, needs, and aspirations of the incarcerated population.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of morning count echoes through housing units as individuals begin another structured day, with routines that remain consistently organized around security procedures, meal times, and programmed activities. Today, like most days, begins early with wake-up calls followed by mandatory counts, after which individuals typically prepare for breakfast and their assigned responsibilities throughout the facility. The structured environment generally includes regular meal service, work assignments, and recreational periods that offer stability and purpose within the correctional setting.

Living accommodations at the facility typically consist of shared cells or dormitory-style housing units, where individuals maintain personal spaces within the constraints of institutional guidelines. Each housing area generally provides basic furnishings and storage for approved personal property, while common areas may offer spaces for television viewing, reading, or quiet conversation during designated times. Additionally, individuals usually have access to commissary services where they can purchase approved items to supplement their basic needs, and laundry facilities operate on scheduled rotations throughout the week.

Structured programming schedules often include educational opportunities, vocational training, and recreational activities that individuals may participate in based on their classification level and behavioral standing. While security requirements shape many aspects of daily interaction, the facility typically offers various programs designed to support personal development and preparation for eventual reintegration. Family connections remain important through regular visitation opportunities and telephone privileges, allowing individuals to maintain relationships with loved ones, though these communications generally operate within established institutional guidelines and scheduling systems.