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 Craven Correctional Institution.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Craven 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 Craven Correctional Institution.

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

   Mailing address:

   Craven Correctional Institution
   600 Alligator Rd
   Vanceboro, NC 28586
   Phone: (252) 244-3337

   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 Craven Correctional Institution?

   Visiting hours at Craven 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 (252) 244-3337 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 Craven 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 Craven Correctional Institution for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Craven 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 Craven 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 Craven 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 Craven 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

Comprehensive support systems form the foundation of rehabilitation efforts, with various programs designed to address the diverse needs of the population. These initiatives typically focus on building essential life skills while addressing underlying issues that may have contributed to incarceration. The approach emphasizes practical preparation for successful community reintegration through structured learning opportunities.

Educational services play a central role in supporting personal development, often including basic literacy programs and civic education components that help participants understand their rights and responsibilities as citizens. Vocational training programs may supply hands-on experience in trades that offer employment opportunities upon release. These educational initiatives typically work together to build both academic foundations and practical skills that enhance prospects for stable employment.

In addition to this academic focus, therapeutic programs address substance abuse issues through counseling and group sessions designed to support long-term recovery. Support services often include specialized programs such as painting and decorating training, which provides marketable skills while encouraging creative expression. Domestic violence programs may offer education about healthy relationships, while masonry training typically supplies construction industry skills. These diverse offerings work together to address both personal challenges and practical preparation for community reintegration.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured schedules and established protocols shape every aspect of the experience for the population at Craven Correctional Institution. The facility currently operates on a regimented daily routine that continues to provide predictability through consistent meal times, count procedures, and program schedules. Wake-up typically occurs in the early morning hours, followed by structured periods for meals, work assignments, and recreational activities that supply the framework for each day.

Living accommodations generally consist of dormitory-style housing units or individual cells, depending on security classification and housing availability. The population typically shares common areas within their assigned housing units, with personal property limited to approved items that can be stored in designated spaces. In addition to this structured living environment, meals are served in central dining facilities at scheduled times, with the population moving in organized groups under staff supervision.

Work assignments supply daily structure for many residents, with opportunities that may include facility maintenance, kitchen duties, or other institutional operations. Despite this regimented schedule, the facility typically provides recreational opportunities such as outdoor exercise periods, library access, and television viewing during designated hours. Family connections continue through scheduled visitation periods and telephone privileges, while commissary services generally allow the population to purchase approved personal items and food products to supplement their daily routine.