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 Fox Lake Correctional Institution.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Fox Lake Correctional Institution 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 Fox Lake Correctional Institution.

Frequently asked questions about Fox Lake Correctional Institution

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 Fox Lake Correctional Institution.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Fox Lake Correctional Institution?

   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 Fox Lake Correctional Institution?

   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 Fox Lake Correctional Institution. 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 Fox Lake Correctional Institution. 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 Fox Lake Correctional Institution?

   Mailing address:

   Fox Lake Correctional Institution
   W10237 Lake Emily Rd
   Fox Lake, WI 53933
   Phone: (920) 928-3151

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 2:30 – 8:45 PM
   • Tuesday: 2:30 – 8:45 PM
   • Wednesday: 2:30 – 8:45 PM
   • Thursday: 2:30 – 8:45 PM
   • Friday: 2:30 – 8:45 PM
   • Saturday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Sunday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Fox Lake Correctional Institution?

   Visiting hours at Fox Lake Correctional Institution 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 (920) 928-3151 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 Fox Lake Correctional Institution?

   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 Fox Lake Correctional Institution for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Fox Lake Correctional Institution?

   You can send money to an inmate at Fox Lake Correctional Institution 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 Fox Lake Correctional Institution?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Fox Lake Correctional Institution, 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 Fox Lake Correctional Institution?

   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 Fox Lake Correctional Institution 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 Fox Lake Correctional Institution, 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 Wisconsin Department of Corrections' "Four P's" mission—Protect, Provide, Promote, and Partner—shapes the comprehensive programming approach at Fox Lake Correctional Institution. Operating under a responsible living, no pass system concept, the facility emphasizes providing opportunities for positive change and success through various rehabilitative services. The institution's commitment to partnering and collaborating with community service providers typically creates pathways for individuals to access educational opportunities, vocational training, and counseling services designed to support successful reintegration.

Educational programming at the facility may include adult basic education, GED preparation, and literacy courses to help individuals develop fundamental academic skills. Vocational training opportunities often encompass trades such as construction, maintenance, food service, and manufacturing skills that align with local employment markets. The institution typically offers substance abuse treatment programs, mental health counseling, and cognitive-behavioral interventions to address underlying issues that may have contributed to criminal behavior. These therapeutic services are often complemented by life skills programming that covers topics such as financial literacy, job readiness, and communication skills.

Support services at Fox Lake Correctional Institution generally include library access, recreational activities, and religious programming to promote personal development and community connection. The facility's approach to promoting and educating others about their programs may involve collaboration with local organizations to provide additional resources and support networks. Pre-release planning services typically assist individuals in preparing for reentry by connecting them with community resources, housing assistance, and employment opportunities, reflecting the institution's commitment to reducing recidivism and supporting long-term success in the community.

Daily Life & Visitation

Residents at Fox Lake Correctional Institution follow structured routines within Wisconsin's medium-security facility that operates under a responsible living, no pass system concept. Located on Lake Emily Road in Fox Lake, the institution emphasizes accountability and personal responsibility as part of its approach to corrections. The facility's handbook, available in both English and Spanish, outlines expectations and procedures that guide residents through their daily activities, while the institution works to fulfill the Department of Corrections' mission of protecting the public, staff, and those in their care while providing opportunities for positive change.

Family connections remain an important aspect of life at FLCI, with the institution maintaining regular visitation schedules and updated policies to accommodate families. The facility has implemented cashless vending systems and provides detailed visitation information in multiple languages to help families navigate the process. Communication with loved ones typically includes monitored phone calls, mail correspondence, and scheduled visits, all designed to maintain important family bonds while ensuring institutional security. These connections often serve as motivation for residents participating in various programs and services.

The institution's responsible living model may encourage residents to take greater ownership of their daily choices and behavior, potentially including participation in work assignments, educational opportunities, and programming designed to support successful reintegration. Under the leadership of the warden's office, staff members work to balance security requirements with rehabilitation goals, creating an environment where residents can develop skills and make positive changes. The facility's approach reflects Wisconsin's broader correctional philosophy of preparing individuals for eventual return to their communities while maintaining public safety.