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 Ellis County Sheriffs Office/ Wayne McCollum Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Ellis County Sheriffs Office/ Wayne McCollum 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 Ellis County Sheriffs Office/ Wayne McCollum Detention Center.

Frequently asked questions about Ellis County Sheriffs Office/ Wayne McCollum 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 Ellis County Sheriffs Office/ Wayne McCollum Detention Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Ellis County Sheriffs Office/ Wayne McCollum 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 Ellis County Sheriffs Office/ Wayne McCollum 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 Ellis County Sheriffs Office/ Wayne McCollum 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 Ellis County Sheriffs Office/ Wayne McCollum 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 Ellis County Sheriffs Office/ Wayne McCollum Detention Center?

   Mailing address:

   Ellis County Sheriffs Office/ Wayne McCollum Detention Center
   300 S Jackson St
   Waxahachie, TX 75165
   Phone: (972) 825-4901

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Ellis County Sheriffs Office/ Wayne McCollum Detention Center?

   Visiting hours at Ellis County Sheriffs Office/ Wayne McCollum 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 (972) 825-4901 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 Ellis County Sheriffs Office/ Wayne McCollum 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 Ellis County Sheriffs Office/ Wayne McCollum Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Ellis County Sheriffs Office/ Wayne McCollum Detention Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Ellis County Sheriffs Office/ Wayne McCollum 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 Ellis County Sheriffs Office/ Wayne McCollum Detention Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Ellis County Sheriffs Office/ Wayne McCollum 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 Ellis County Sheriffs Office/ Wayne McCollum 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 Ellis County Sheriffs Office/ Wayne McCollum 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 Ellis County Sheriffs Office/ Wayne McCollum 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

Cognitive behavioral therapy and structured group therapy sessions form the foundation of therapeutic initiatives at Ellis Unit, creating pathways for residents to address underlying behavioral patterns and develop essential coping strategies. These evidence-based approaches typically focus on helping individuals recognize triggers, modify thought processes, and build healthier responses to challenging situations. The facility's comprehensive approach to rehabilitation emphasizes personal accountability while providing residents with practical tools they can apply both during incarceration and upon reentry into their communities.

Educational and vocational initiatives may deliver hands-on training opportunities that prepare residents for meaningful employment after release. Automotive repair training often includes instruction in engine diagnostics, brake systems, and general vehicle maintenance, providing residents with marketable skills in a consistently growing field. Moreover, broader vocational training initiatives typically encompass various trades and technical skills, allowing participants to explore different career paths and discover aptitudes they may not have previously recognized.

Support services and therapeutic initiatives work together to address the diverse needs of the resident population through multiple avenues of engagement. Work programs often provide structure and responsibility while teaching valuable job skills and work ethic principles. Faith-based initiatives may offer spiritual guidance and community support for those seeking this form of personal development. Additionally, recycling programs typically serve dual purposes by promoting environmental responsibility while giving residents opportunities to contribute meaningfully to facility operations and develop a sense of purpose through productive activity.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structure now governs every aspect of life within the facility, with residents following carefully planned schedules that deliver predictability and order. The day typically begins with early morning counts and meal service, followed by work assignments or programming activities that occupy most daylight hours. Residents regularly participate in educational classes, vocational training, or facility maintenance duties that help maintain operations. Moreover, recreational periods are built into the schedule, allowing time for physical exercise, library visits, or quiet personal activities.

Living accommodations at Ellis Unit generally consist of shared housing units where residents maintain personal spaces within a communal environment. Each resident typically has access to basic furnishings and may keep approved personal property, including photographs, letters, and commissary items. Meals are served in designated dining areas at scheduled times, with residents usually having opportunities to purchase additional food items and necessities through the commissary system. Whereas the physical environment emphasizes security and order, residents often develop routines around maintaining their living spaces and personal belongings.

Structured programming schedules deliver educational opportunities, substance abuse counseling, and life skills training that residents may participate in throughout the week. Recreation periods typically include access to outdoor exercise areas, television viewing, and organized activities that promote social interaction within appropriate boundaries. Family connections remain important through scheduled visitation periods and telephone privileges, allowing residents to maintain relationships with loved ones. Moreover, the mail system provides another avenue for communication, helping residents stay connected to their support networks while serving their sentences within this structured environment.