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 Elayn Hunt Correctional Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Elayn Hunt Correctional 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 Elayn Hunt Correctional Center.

Frequently asked questions about Elayn Hunt Correctional 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 Elayn Hunt Correctional Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Elayn Hunt Correctional 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 Elayn Hunt Correctional 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 Elayn Hunt Correctional 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 Elayn Hunt Correctional 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 Elayn Hunt Correctional Center?

   Mailing address:

   Elayn Hunt Correctional Center
   6925 LA-74
   St Gabriel, LA 70776
   Phone: (225) 642-3306

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Open 24 hours
   • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
   • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
   • Thursday: Open 24 hours
   • Friday: Open 24 hours
   • Saturday: Open 24 hours
   • Sunday: Open 24 hours

5. What are the visiting hours at Elayn Hunt Correctional Center?

   Visiting hours at Elayn Hunt Correctional 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 (225) 642-3306 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 Elayn Hunt Correctional 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 Elayn Hunt Correctional Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Elayn Hunt Correctional Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Elayn Hunt Correctional 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 Elayn Hunt Correctional Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Elayn Hunt Correctional 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 Elayn Hunt Correctional 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 Elayn Hunt Correctional 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 Elayn Hunt Correctional 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 Louisiana Department of Corrections facility in St. Gabriel operates with a comprehensive mission to provide assessment, diagnostic, work, educational, self-help, discipline, medical, mental health, and social programs in an environment that fosters respect for both incarcerated individuals and personnel. This correctional center emphasizes preparing residents for successful reentry through educational programming while maintaining a focus on safety and institutional stability. The facility's approach centers on providing opportunities for restitution and participation in reentry initiatives as mechanisms to compensate individuals and communities affected by crime.

Educational and vocational programming typically forms a cornerstone of the facility's rehabilitation efforts, with residents often having access to basic education services, GED preparation, and workforce development opportunities. The center may offer vocational training programs in areas such as construction, maintenance, food service, and other practical skills that support post-release employment prospects. Counseling services often include substance abuse treatment programs, anger management classes, and life skills development courses designed to address underlying issues that may have contributed to criminal behavior.

Healthcare services encompass both medical and mental health treatment, with the facility maintaining quality care standards for residents with various health needs. Support programs may include religious services, family counseling, and pre-release planning assistance to help individuals transition back into their communities. The center's commitment to reentry preparation often involves collaboration with community organizations and agencies to provide continuity of care and support services that extend beyond incarceration, helping residents develop the tools and connections necessary for successful community reintegration.

Daily Life & Visitation

Located in St. Gabriel, Louisiana, Elayn Hunt Correctional Center operates under a structured mission to provide basic services including adequate food, clothing, healthcare, and shelter while maintaining a controlled environment. The facility emphasizes creating an atmosphere that fosters respect for both incarcerated individuals and staff members, with operations designed to promote institutional stability and safety for the public, employees, and those in custody.

The center typically follows a regimented schedule that begins early each morning, with individuals participating in various programs throughout the day. EHCC offers an assortment of assessment, diagnostic, work, educational, and self-help programs designed to prepare individuals for reentry into the community. These may include vocational training opportunities, educational classes, and social programs that encourage personal development. Medical and mental health services are provided as part of the facility's commitment to quality healthcare, with custody screening processes in place to ensure appropriate placement and care.

Family connections remain an important aspect of life at the facility, with visitation policies in place to maintain relationships while ensuring security protocols are followed. The center's focus on reentry initiatives provides opportunities for individuals to participate in programs aimed at making restitution and preparing for successful community reintegration. These programs typically emphasize workforce development and skill-building activities that support long-term rehabilitation goals, while the facility maintains its accreditation standards and continues to develop staff training programs to enhance operations.