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 Erie County Correctional Facility.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Erie County 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 Erie County Correctional Facility.

Frequently asked questions about Erie County 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 Erie County Correctional Facility.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Erie County 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 Erie County 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 Erie County 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 Erie County 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 Erie County Correctional Facility?

   Mailing address:

   Erie County Correctional Facility
   11581 Walden Ave
   Alden, NY 14004
   Phone: (716) 937-9101

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Erie County Correctional Facility?

   Visiting hours at Erie County 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 (716) 937-9101 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 Erie County 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 Erie County Correctional Facility for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Erie County Correctional Facility?

   You can send money to an inmate at Erie County 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 Erie County Correctional Facility?

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

The Erie County Correctional Facility prioritizes maintaining family connections through comprehensive visitation services, including both in-person and video visitation options that accommodate various scheduling needs throughout the week. The facility's Correctional Health Unit ensures that incarcerated individuals receive timely and appropriate medical and dental care, forming the foundation of support services that may extend into broader wellness and rehabilitation programming.

Beyond healthcare services, the facility typically offers educational opportunities that may include GED preparation, adult basic education, and vocational training programs designed to prepare individuals for successful reintegration. Counseling services often encompass substance abuse treatment, mental health support, and behavioral modification programs that address underlying issues contributing to criminal behavior. These programs frequently work in conjunction with case management services to develop individualized treatment plans.

The facility may also provide religious services, library access, and recreational activities that support personal development and maintain physical and mental well-being during incarceration. Work programs and job training opportunities are commonly available, allowing participants to develop practical skills while contributing to facility operations. Additionally, pre-release planning services typically assist individuals in securing housing, employment, and community support resources to facilitate a successful transition back into the community upon release.

Daily Life & Visitation

Multiple visitation sessions throughout the week provide incarcerated individuals at Erie County Correctional Facility in Alden and Erie County Holding Center in Buffalo with regular opportunities to connect with family members. The facilities operate structured visitation schedules, with sign-up periods typically beginning around 7:30 a.m. and extending into evening hours until approximately 9:30 p.m. on designated days. Both locations offer video visitation services through an online scheduling system, allowing families to maintain contact when in-person visits may not be possible.

The facilities maintain comprehensive medical and dental services through the Erie County Sheriff's Office Correctional Health Unit, which works to ensure timely and appropriate healthcare for all incarcerated individuals. This medical support typically includes routine health screenings, chronic disease management, and emergency care as needed. Throughout each day, individuals generally follow structured schedules that may include meals at designated times, recreational periods, educational programming, and work assignments depending on their housing classification and length of stay.

Living conditions at both facilities typically include dormitory-style or individual cell housing, with common areas for meals and programming activities. The daily routine often begins early in the morning with breakfast service, followed by various scheduled activities that may include educational classes, vocational training, library access, or recreational time. Evening hours usually conclude with dinner service and a final count before lights-out, creating a predictable structure that helps maintain order and provides opportunities for personal development and family connection through the established visitation programs.