Ordering Packages for Someone at Foothills: Windows, Refunds, Footwear Limits, and Electronics Warnings

For Foothills and other North Carolina Department of Adult Correction facilities, Union Supply Direct is a go-to source for seasonal and footwear packages. Their shopping pages feature pre-approved items, so you're not guessing what's allowed - if it's listed, it's presented as approved for NC inmates.

Seasonal packages are tied to specific ordering windows, and those dates are strict. For example, a Spring window might list the first day to order as Wednesday, January 7 and the last day as Friday, February 6. That's just a sample of the format - always confirm the current window dates before placing an order.

Status changes can affect whether a package ships. If the person you're ordering for gets placed on control status - HCON, MCON, ICON, or Safekeeper - before the package ships, Union Supply Direct cancels the order. You'll get a refund minus a $5.00 restocking fee.

Footwear has strict possession limits. Offenders can only have one pair each of work boots, tennis shoes, and shower shoes at any time. If your loved one already owns a pair in one of those categories, sending another creates a problem at delivery. Plan your order around what they're allowed to keep.

• ✓ Ask what footwear they currently have (work boots, tennis shoes, shower shoes) so you’re not ordering a second pair in the same category
• ✓ Decide whether you’re replacing an existing pair or filling a category they don’t currently have
• ✓ Double-check sizing before you submit the order
• ✓ Review the vendor’s return/refund rules before you buy, especially if you’re unsure about size

Be careful with electronics, especially rechargeable items. Some prisons lack the infrastructure for rechargeable devices, and you're responsible for confirming that what you buy works with the facility's conditions and restrictions. Don't assume an item will be usable just because it's available - confirm first.

1. Confirm the facility’s conditions and restrictions - Before you buy an electronic item, make sure it’s allowed and usable under the facility’s specific rules.
2. Pay extra attention to rechargeable devices - Some prisons may not have the infrastructure to support them, so treat rechargeable electronics as “verify first.”
3. Match the item to the facility’s requirements - You’re responsible for confirming compatibility, so compare what you’re buying to what the facility permits.
4. Save your order details - Keep the confirmation and item information in case you need it for a follow-up with the vendor.

1. Confirm the current ordering window - Check the active dates right before you place an order so you don’t miss the cutoff.
2. Verify your loved one’s eligibility/status - If they’re placed on a control status before shipping, the order can be canceled.
3. Check footwear limits before ordering shoes - Plan around the one-pair-per-category rule so the item can actually be received.
4. Verify electronics compatibility before purchasing - Especially for rechargeable devices, confirm the item fits the facility’s conditions and restrictions.
5. Place the order and keep records - Save your receipt, order number, and item details for your own tracking.