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 Garza East Unit.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Garza East Unit 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 Garza East Unit.

Frequently asked questions about Garza East Unit

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 Garza East Unit.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Garza East Unit?

   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 Garza East Unit?

   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 Garza East Unit. 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 Garza East Unit. 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 Garza East Unit?

   Mailing address:

   Garza East Unit
   4250 TX-202
   Beeville, TX 78102
   Phone: (361) 358-9880

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Closed
   • Tuesday: Closed
   • Wednesday: Closed
   • Thursday: Closed
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Saturday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Sunday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Garza East Unit?

   Visiting hours at Garza East Unit 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 (361) 358-9880 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 Garza East Unit?

   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 Garza East Unit for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Garza East Unit?

   You can send money to an inmate at Garza East Unit 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 Garza East Unit?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Garza East Unit, 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 Garza East Unit?

   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 Garza East Unit 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 Garza East Unit, 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

Through comprehensive programs designed to address the diverse needs of incarcerated individuals, support is provided through various services that focus on rehabilitation and successful community reintegration. The facility typically emphasizes a holistic approach to programming, recognizing that effective preparation for release requires addressing multiple aspects of an individual's development. These programs often include opportunities for skill-building, personal growth, and community connection that may help the population develop the tools necessary for long-term success.

Educational and vocational training programs form a cornerstone of the facility's approach to supporting the population. Vocational training opportunities may supply participants with hands-on experience in various trades and technical fields, helping them develop marketable skills for employment upon release. These programs often include structured learning environments where individuals can gain certifications and practical experience that typically enhance their prospects for securing stable employment in their communities.

Support services extend beyond traditional educational offerings to encompass a range of programs designed to address reintegration challenges. Work programs may provide the population with opportunities to develop job readiness skills and work experience within the facility environment. Also, faith-based initiatives often offer spiritual support and community connection for those who choose to participate. Transitional planning services typically assist individuals in preparing for their return to the community, while work release programs may allow eligible participants to maintain employment connections that can continue after their release, supporting both family stability and successful reintegration.

Daily Life & Visitation

Systematic organization shapes every aspect of the experience for the population at Garza West, where structured schedules now govern daily activities from morning count to evening lockdown. The population regularly follows established routines that include designated times for meals, work assignments, educational programming, and recreational activities. Security staff conduct routine counts throughout the day to maintain accountability. Also, the facility typically operates on a predictable schedule that helps residents understand expectations and plan their time accordingly.

Housing units at the facility generally accommodate multiple residents in dormitory-style or cell-based arrangements, depending on classification levels and security requirements. The population usually has access to basic amenities within their living areas, including personal storage space for approved belongings and commissary items. However, space and privacy remain limited, with residents sharing common areas and facilities. Living conditions typically include access to showers, restroom facilities, and designated areas for personal activities during approved hours.

Structured programming schedules supply various opportunities for the population to engage in educational classes, vocational training, and recreational activities. Work assignments often include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, laundry services, and facility cleaning responsibilities that help maintain daily operations. Also, visitation policies generally allow family members and approved visitors to maintain contact through scheduled visits and phone calls. The facility may offer recreational time in outdoor areas or gymnasiums, along with access to library services and television programming during designated hours. However, all activities remain subject to security protocols and facility regulations that prioritize safety and order.