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 Deer Ridge Correctional Institution.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Deer Ridge 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 Deer Ridge Correctional Institution.

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

   Mailing address:

   Deer Ridge Correctional Institution
   3920 E Ashwood Rd
   Madras, OR 97741
   Phone: (541) 325-5999

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Closed
   • Tuesday: Closed
   • Wednesday: Closed
   • Thursday: Closed
   • Friday: 7:00 – 9:00 PM
   • Saturday: 7:00 – 10:00 AM
   • 1:00 – 4:00 PM
   • Sunday: 7:00 – 10:00 AM
   • 1:00 – 4:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Deer Ridge Correctional Institution?

   Visiting hours at Deer Ridge 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 (541) 325-5999 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 Deer Ridge 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 Deer Ridge Correctional Institution for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Deer Ridge 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 Deer Ridge Correctional Institution?

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

Personal growth and skill development form the foundation of opportunities available to those incarcerated at Deer Ridge Correctional Institution. The facility typically emphasizes creating structured pathways that may help individuals build essential life skills while maintaining a secure environment. These offerings often focus on addressing underlying issues that contribute to criminal behavior while preparing participants for successful community reintegration.

Educational services and vocational programs provide practical foundations for future employment and personal advancement. Those incarcerated may access basic education opportunities that often include literacy development and academic skill building. The facility typically offers vocational training in areas such as printing, which may furnish participants with marketable job skills. These structured learning environments often emphasize both technical competency and workplace readiness skills that can support long-term stability.

In addition to these educational opportunities, therapeutic and support services address personal development needs. Substance abuse treatment programs may help individuals work through addiction issues in a structured setting. Cognitive behavioral programs typically focus on developing better decision-making skills and emotional regulation. Religious services often provide spiritual support and community connection for those who choose to participate. These comprehensive offerings work together to create an environment where personal growth and positive change may occur within the facility's secure framework.

Daily Life & Visitation

Building connections with family and fellow residents forms the foundation of life for those incarcerated at Deer Ridge Correctional Institution. Today typically begins with structured count times and meal service, while consistently maintaining opportunities for social interaction throughout scheduled activities. The facility generally operates on a routine that balances security requirements with programming needs.

Housing units at the facility usually accommodate multiple residents in dormitory-style or cell arrangements, depending on security classification levels. Those incarcerated typically share common areas where they may interact during designated periods. In addition to this living arrangement, meals are generally served in communal dining areas at scheduled times, providing regular opportunities for social connection. Personal property allowances usually include basic necessities and approved items that can be purchased through the commissary system.

Recreation and exercise opportunities typically furnish structured time for physical activity and social engagement among residents. Work assignments within the facility may include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, or other institutional operations that often foster teamwork and routine. Despite this structured environment, visitation policies generally allow for regular contact with family members and approved visitors during designated hours. Communication options usually include monitored phone calls and correspondence, helping those incarcerated maintain important outside relationships. Programming schedules typically offer educational classes, vocational training, or counseling services that encourage both personal development and peer interaction throughout the week.