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 Decatur Corrections Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Decatur Corrections Center 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 Decatur Corrections Center.

Frequently asked questions about Decatur Corrections Center

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 Decatur Corrections Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Decatur Corrections Center?

   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 Decatur Corrections Center?

   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 Decatur Corrections Center. 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 Decatur Corrections Center. 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 Decatur Corrections Center?

   Mailing address:

   Decatur Corrections Center
   2310 E Mound Rd
   Decatur, IL 62526
   Phone: (217) 877-0353

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Thursday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Friday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Sunday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Decatur Corrections Center?

   Visiting hours at Decatur Corrections Center 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 (217) 877-0353 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 Decatur Corrections Center?

   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 Decatur Corrections Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Decatur Corrections Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Decatur Corrections Center 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 Decatur Corrections Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Decatur Corrections Center, 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 Decatur Corrections Center?

   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 Decatur Corrections Center 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 Decatur Corrections Center, 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 mission of Decatur Correctional Center centers on strengthening family relationships and supporting female individuals in custody as they work to reestablish connections with their children. This family-focused approach shapes many of the facility’s programs, which are designed to address the diverse needs of the women housed there. The facility’s nursery program, with a capacity for eight mothers and their infants, represents a comprehensive opportunity for bonding and parenting skill development during incarceration.

Educational and vocational programming typically forms the foundation of rehabilitation efforts at the facility. Women may have access to GED preparation courses, adult basic education, and various vocational training opportunities that can help them develop marketable skills for reentry. The facility may also offer substance abuse treatment programs, mental health counseling services, and life skills workshops that address issues commonly faced by female offenders, such as trauma recovery and financial literacy.

Support services often include religious programming, library access, and recreational activities that promote physical and mental well-being. The facility’s emphasis on family connections may extend to parenting classes, family therapy sessions, and enhanced visitation programs beyond the standard video visitation available daily from 8:30 AM to 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM, and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Pre-release planning services typically help women prepare for successful reintegration into their communities, connecting them with housing resources, employment assistance, and ongoing support services.

Daily Life & Visitation

At Decatur Correctional Center, the day typically begins early with structured routines designed to support the facility’s mission of helping female residents strengthen relationships with their children and families. The center, which opened in January 2000 and houses a minimum security female population, operates with an emphasis on family connections through its various communication and visitation opportunities. Video visitation sessions are available seven days a week during three scheduled time blocks: 8:30am to 11:00am, 1:00pm to 2:30pm, and 5:00pm to 9:00pm, allowing residents to maintain regular contact with loved ones.

The facility’s daily operations revolve around its specialized programming aimed at addressing the diverse needs of its female population. With an operational capacity of 707 beds and an additional 8-bed nursery capacity, Decatur Correctional Center provides various programs focused on family reunification and personal growth. Residents may participate in educational opportunities, vocational training, and therapeutic programs throughout the day, with schedules typically structured around meals, work assignments, and program participation. The center’s emphasis on family relationships often includes parenting classes and other family-focused initiatives.

Communication with the outside world is facilitated through multiple channels, including the ICSolutions electronic messaging system and traditional mail services. Residents can receive correspondence at their designated P.O. Box address, and the facility maintains phone services for approved calls. The structured environment balances security requirements with opportunities for personal development, as residents work toward successful reintegration into their communities while maintaining crucial family bonds during their time at the facility.