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 Cumberland County Prison.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Cumberland County Prison 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 Cumberland County Prison.

Frequently asked questions about Cumberland County Prison

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 Cumberland County Prison.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Cumberland County Prison?

   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 Cumberland County Prison?

   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 Cumberland County Prison. 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 Cumberland County Prison. 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 Cumberland County Prison?

   Mailing address:

   Cumberland County Prison
   1101 Claremont Rd
   Carlisle, PA 17015
   Phone: (717) 245-8787

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 3:45 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 3:45 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 3:45 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 3:45 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 3:45 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Cumberland County Prison?

   Visiting hours at Cumberland County Prison 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 (717) 245-8787 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 Cumberland County Prison?

   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 Cumberland County Prison for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Cumberland County Prison?

   You can send money to an inmate at Cumberland County Prison 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 Cumberland County Prison?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Cumberland County Prison, 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 Cumberland County Prison?

   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 Cumberland County Prison 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 Cumberland County Prison, 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

Communication with family and legal representatives forms a cornerstone of the inmate support system at Cumberland County Prison in Pennsylvania. The facility maintains structured mail protocols that ensure both security and access to legal counsel, with dedicated procedures for handling correspondence from attorneys, court officials, and government representatives. This communication framework supports inmates’ legal rights while maintaining facility safety standards.

The prison typically offers various rehabilitative and educational programs designed to support successful reentry into the community. These may include basic educational services such as GED preparation, literacy programs, and adult basic education classes. Vocational training opportunities often focus on practical skills that enhance employment prospects upon release, potentially including areas like maintenance, food service, or basic computer literacy. The facility may also provide substance abuse counseling programs, anger management classes, and life skills workshops that address the underlying factors contributing to criminal behavior.

Mental health and medical services are generally available to address inmates’ healthcare needs during their incarceration. The facility likely offers access to medical professionals for routine healthcare, mental health counseling for those experiencing psychological challenges, and may coordinate with community organizations to provide additional support services. Religious services and chaplaincy programs typically provide spiritual guidance and support, while recreational activities and library services may offer constructive ways for inmates to use their time productively. These comprehensive services work together to create an environment focused on rehabilitation and preparing individuals for successful reintegration into their communities.

Daily Life & Visitation

Communication with loved ones forms a central part of the inmate experience at Cumberland County Prison in Pennsylvania, where strict mail protocols ensure both security and connection. All incoming personal correspondence undergoes thorough inspection for contraband, with non-legal mail opened and date-stamped by staff before reaching inmates. Money orders sent by family members are processed directly onto inmate accounts with receipts provided, while legal correspondence from attorneys, court officials, or government representatives receives special handling - opened dedicated in the inmate’s presence and requiring their signature upon receipt.

The facility maintains detailed logging procedures for all outgoing mail, requiring inmates to include proper return addresses with their name and the facility’s address. Personal letters, photographs, and drawings from family and friends must be sent to the prison’s designated P.O. Box in Phoenix, Maryland, along with the inmate’s full name and identification number. Staff may inspect any correspondence if there’s probable cause of criminal activity, and materials deemed potentially disruptive to facility security face censorship or removal.

Beyond mail communication, daily routines at Cumberland County Prison typically include structured meal times, recreational periods, and work assignments where available. Inmates may have access to educational programming, library services, and limited telephone privileges during designated hours. Visitation schedules often provide opportunities for face-to-face contact with approved family members and friends, though these sessions operate under strict security protocols. The facility generally maintains standard operating procedures common to Pennsylvania correctional institutions, balancing security requirements with programs designed to support rehabilitation and maintain family connections during incarceration.