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 El Dorado Correctional Facility.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at El Dorado Correctional Facility 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 El Dorado Correctional Facility.

Frequently asked questions about El Dorado Correctional Facility

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 El Dorado Correctional Facility.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to El Dorado Correctional Facility?

   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 El Dorado Correctional Facility?

   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 El Dorado Correctional Facility. 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 El Dorado Correctional Facility. 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 El Dorado Correctional Facility?

   Mailing address:

   El Dorado Correctional Facility
   1737 US-54
   El Dorado, KS 67042
   Phone: (316) 321-7284

5. What are the visiting hours at El Dorado Correctional Facility?

   Visiting hours at El Dorado Correctional Facility 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 (316) 321-7284 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 El Dorado Correctional Facility?

   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 El Dorado Correctional Facility for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at El Dorado Correctional Facility?

   You can send money to an inmate at El Dorado Correctional Facility 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 El Dorado Correctional Facility?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At El Dorado Correctional Facility, 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 El Dorado Correctional Facility?

   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 El Dorado Correctional Facility 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 El Dorado Correctional Facility, 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

Educational and vocational training programs form the foundation of rehabilitation efforts at El Dorado Correctional Facility, with offerings that typically include adult basic education, GED preparation, and various career-focused training opportunities. The facility may provide vocational programs in areas such as automotive technology, welding, carpentry, and food service, designed to equip individuals with marketable skills for successful reentry into the community. Educational services often extend to computer literacy training and life skills development, helping participants build both technical competencies and essential personal management abilities.

Counseling and therapeutic services at EDCF typically encompass substance abuse treatment programs, mental health counseling, and cognitive-behavioral interventions. The facility may offer group therapy sessions, individual counseling, and specialized programs addressing anger management and criminal thinking patterns. These services are often complemented by faith-based programming and peer support groups that provide additional avenues for personal growth and accountability.

Support services at the facility generally include library access, recreational activities, and work assignments that provide structure and skill development opportunities. The facility may maintain programs focused on family reunification and community reintegration, potentially including parenting classes and pre-release planning services. With its main facility in El Dorado and satellite units in Oswego, the correctional system typically coordinates these various programs to serve different custody levels and individual needs, though specific program availability may vary based on security classification and individual assessments.

Daily Life & Visitation

Inmates at El Dorado Correctional Facility begin each day within a structured environment that balances security requirements with opportunities for personal development and family connection. The facility, located at 1737 US-54 in El Dorado, Kansas, operates multiple housing units that typically accommodate different custody levels, with daily schedules varying based on an inmate's classification and program participation.

Communication with family members remains an important aspect of life at EDCF, with the facility generally providing telephone access during designated hours and mail services that follow standard Kansas Department of Corrections policies. Visitation opportunities are typically available on scheduled days, allowing inmates to maintain meaningful connections with their loved ones. The facility's phone number, (316) 321-7284, serves as the primary contact point for families seeking information about visiting procedures and policies.

The facility often includes various programs and services designed to support rehabilitation and prepare inmates for successful reintegration into the community. These may encompass educational opportunities, vocational training, and counseling services, though specific program availability can vary based on security level and individual eligibility. Additionally, EDCF operates satellite units including the Southeast Medium Unit and Southeast Minimum Unit in Oswego, which may offer different daily routines and program options based on their respective security classifications and operational requirements.