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 George W. Hill Correctional Facility.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at George W. Hill 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 George W. Hill Correctional Facility.

Frequently asked questions about George W. Hill 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 George W. Hill Correctional Facility.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to George W. Hill 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 George W. Hill 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 George W. Hill 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 George W. Hill 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 George W. Hill Correctional Facility?

   Mailing address:

   George W. Hill Correctional Facility
   500 Cheyney Rd
   Thornton, PA 19373
   Phone: (610) 361-3200

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at George W. Hill Correctional Facility?

   Visiting hours at George W. Hill 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 (610) 361-3200 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 George W. Hill 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 George W. Hill Correctional Facility for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at George W. Hill Correctional Facility?

   You can send money to an inmate at George W. Hill 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 George W. Hill Correctional Facility?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At George W. Hill 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 George W. Hill 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 George W. Hill 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 George W. Hill 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

From basic literacy courses to specialized trade training, the range of opportunities at George W. Hill Corrections Facility reflects a comprehensive approach to individual development. The facility typically emphasizes skill-building across multiple areas, recognizing that meaningful change often requires addressing educational, vocational, and personal growth needs simultaneously. This multi-faceted approach may help individuals build the foundation necessary for successful community reintegration.

Educational services often form the cornerstone of available opportunities, with individuals able to work toward completing their high school equivalency or improving basic academic skills. Additionally, vocational training opportunities may include specialized programs such as small engine repair, which can provide hands-on technical skills that translate directly to employment possibilities. These educational and vocational offerings typically focus on practical skills that align with local job market demands.

Support services and therapeutic opportunities complement the educational programming through various specialized interventions. Mental health treatment services may be available to address underlying behavioral health needs that individuals face during their incarceration. Parenting classes often provide another important support component, helping individuals develop or strengthen family relationship skills. Additionally, broader vocational programs may offer exposure to different career paths and workplace readiness training, creating multiple pathways for personal and professional development.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of morning announcements typically marks the beginning of each day for individuals housed within the facility's structured environment. At present, the daily routine actively revolves around scheduled meal times, work assignments, and programming activities that provide framework to each day. Count procedures occur at regular intervals, ensuring accountability while individuals move between housing units, work areas, and common spaces throughout the facility.

Living accommodations generally consist of shared cells or dormitory-style housing units, where individuals maintain personal belongings within established guidelines. The facility typically provides basic furnishings and bedding, while residents may purchase additional approved items through the commissary system. Additionally, individuals often have access to common areas within their housing units, where they can interact with others during designated recreation periods. Meals are usually served in centralized dining areas at scheduled times, with menu options that aim to meet basic nutritional requirements.

Programming opportunities may offer educational classes, vocational training, and substance abuse counseling to support rehabilitation goals. While recreational activities typically include access to television, reading materials, and exercise equipment, the availability often depends on security level and facility resources. Family connections remain important through scheduled visitation periods and telephone privileges, though specific policies regarding contact frequency and duration may vary. Work assignments within the facility often provide structure and may include maintenance duties, food service, or administrative support roles that help individuals develop skills while contributing to daily operations.