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 Eden Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Eden Detention 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 Eden Detention Center.

Frequently asked questions about Eden Detention 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 Eden Detention Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Eden Detention 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 Eden Detention 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 Eden Detention 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 Eden Detention 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 Eden Detention Center?

   Mailing address:

   Eden Detention Center
   702 E Broadway St
   Eden, TX 76837
   Phone: (325) 869-2704

5. What are the visiting hours at Eden Detention Center?

   Visiting hours at Eden Detention 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 (325) 869-2704 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 Eden Detention 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 Eden Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Eden Detention Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Eden Detention 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 Eden Detention Center?

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

Communication services form a cornerstone of operations at Eden Detention Center, with detainees able to maintain family connections through email and video visitation systems provided through GettingOut.com. The facility operates with 24-hour contact availability for housing information and urgent matters, while also providing structured legal visitation access to support detainees navigating immigration proceedings.

Beyond communication services, Eden Detention Center typically provides educational programming that may include basic literacy instruction, English as a Second Language (ESL) classes, and GED preparation courses. Vocational training opportunities often focus on practical skills such as food service, maintenance, and basic computer literacy that can support successful reintegration. The facility may also offer library services and recreational activities to support detainee well-being during their stay.

Counseling and support services at the facility often include mental health assessments, crisis intervention, and group counseling sessions addressing the comprehensive stresses of detention and immigration proceedings. Medical services typically encompass routine healthcare, medication management, and emergency medical care. Religious services and cultural programming may be available to accommodate the diverse backgrounds of the detainee population, while case management support helps individuals understand their legal options and connect with appropriate resources throughout their immigration process.

Daily Life & Visitation

Communication with family members forms a central part of the routine at Eden Detention Center, where detainees can stay connected through the facility’s tablet system and video visitation services. The center utilizes the GettingOut platform for email and video calls, allowing families to maintain regular contact despite physical separation. For urgent matters, family members can call the main facility number at (325) 869-2704 and press 4 to have messages relayed to detainees, though incoming calls are not permitted directly to individuals in custody.

The structured environment at Eden Detention Center typically includes scheduled meal times, recreation periods, and access to legal resources throughout the day. Detainees often spend portions of their day preparing for immigration court proceedings, which may involve meeting with legal representatives or working on applications for relief from removal. The facility provides information about both in-person legal visits (available by calling and pressing 3) and general visitation policies (accessible by pressing 2), ensuring that individuals can maintain important connections while navigating their immigration cases.

Housing arrangements and daily schedules at the center are designed to accommodate the facility’s role in the immigration detention system, where individuals await hearings before immigration courts. Staff members are available around the clock to provide housing information and assist with basic needs, while detainees may participate in various activities and services commonly offered at immigration detention facilities. The presence of tablets and digital communication systems reflects efforts to help individuals stay informed about their cases and maintain family relationships during what can be an uncertain and stressful time.