Can You Send Packages to an Inmate at FCI Three Rivers? (What Is Allowed)
Trying to send a care package to someone at FCI Three Rivers? The rules are stricter than you might think. Here's what the Bureau of Prisons actually allows, what gets rejected, and how to request an exception.
At FCI Three Rivers - like all BOP facilities - inmates generally can't receive packages "from home." That box you want to put together with food, toiletries, or clothes? It won't be accepted unless the inmate's unit team or another authorized staff member has given prior written approval.
Key point: Written approval has to come through the inmate’s unit team (or an authorized staff member). Without that, a package from home is treated as unauthorized.
Two exceptions exist. The BOP allows packages from home containing release clothing or authorized medical devices. But don't just ship these items - they're still controlled. You need prior written approval from the unit team or authorized staff before sending anything.
Reminder: “Release clothing” and “authorized medical devices” still require prior written approval - send anything only after you’ve confirmed the approval process for your loved one’s situation.
Want to send reading material? That's a different process. Magazines and books - hardcover or paperback - can be received, but they must ship directly from the publisher. You can't box up books from your shelf. Instead, order them so they're sent straight from the source.
Incoming publications still get screened for safety and security. Under BOP policy, only the Warden - or the Acting Warden if the Warden is unavailable - can reject a publication. If a book or magazine gets turned away, that decision isn't made casually by whoever's handling the mail.
- Ask the inmate to check with their unit team - The unit team is the gatekeeper for package approvals, including exceptions like release clothing or authorized medical devices.
- Get the approval in writing before you ship anything - Packages from home aren’t allowed without prior written approval from the unit team or an authorized staff member.
- Confirm whether what you’re sending is even eligible - The BOP only allows packages from home for release clothing and authorized medical devices; everything else is typically refused.
- Use the publisher-only rule for books and magazines - If you’re sending reading material, arrange for it to be sent directly from the publisher rather than from your home.
Planning a visit too? BOP institutions generally have visiting hours on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays (and sometimes during the week), but you’ll want to verify the specific visiting hours for the facility before you go.
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