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 Gib Lewis Unit.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Gib Lewis 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 Gib Lewis Unit.

Frequently asked questions about Gib Lewis 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 Gib Lewis Unit.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Gib Lewis 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 Gib Lewis 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 Gib Lewis 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 Gib Lewis 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 Gib Lewis Unit?

   Mailing address:

   Gib Lewis Unit
   777 FM3497
   Woodville, TX 75990
   Phone: (409) 283-8181

   Business hours:

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

5. What are the visiting hours at Gib Lewis Unit?

   Visiting hours at Gib Lewis 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 (409) 283-8181 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 Gib Lewis 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 Gib Lewis Unit for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Gib Lewis Unit?

   You can send money to an inmate at Gib Lewis 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 Gib Lewis Unit?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Gib Lewis 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 Gib Lewis 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 Gib Lewis 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 Gib Lewis 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 structured educational and vocational programs, the population receives comprehensive support designed to build essential life skills and prepare for successful community reintegration. The facility's approach centers on providing meaningful opportunities that address both immediate needs and long-term goals. These programs typically emphasize personal development while fostering connections to family and community.

Educational programs may supply college correspondence courses that allow participants to pursue higher education goals while incarcerated. The population can often access these academic opportunities through mail-based learning systems that connect them with accredited institutions. Also, vocational training programs focus on developing marketable job skills in various trades and technical fields. These hands-on learning experiences typically prepare participants for employment opportunities upon release.

Support services encompass work programs that provide practical experience and responsibility within the facility environment. Faith-based initiatives often include counseling and spiritual guidance for those seeking religious support during their incarceration. Family reunification programs may supply structured communication opportunities and visitation services to help maintain important relationships. Also, grounds maintenance work assignments typically offer outdoor activity while teaching valuable landscaping and maintenance skills that transfer to civilian employment.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured schedules and clear protocols actively shape every aspect of the experience at the "Lewis Unit." At present, the population follows established routines that typically begin with early morning counts and continue through designated periods for meals, work assignments, and programming activities. Daily operations generally revolve around predictable timeframes that supply both security and stability for residents navigating their sentences.

Housing arrangements typically consist of dormitory-style accommodations or individual cells, depending on classification levels and available space. The population generally shares common areas for dining, where meals are served at scheduled intervals throughout the day. Personal property allowances usually include basic necessities and approved items that can be purchased through the commissary system. However, storage space remains limited, requiring residents to manage their belongings carefully within established guidelines.

Also available are various recreational opportunities that may include outdoor exercise periods, television viewing in designated areas, and organized activities when staffing permits. Work assignments often supply structure through facility maintenance, food service, or other operational roles that help maintain daily operations. The population typically has access to telephone services and visitation opportunities, though these generally operate within specific timeframes and security protocols. However, communication with family members and support systems remains an important component of daily life, helping residents maintain connections during their incarceration period.