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 Gouverneur Correctional Facility.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Gouverneur 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 Gouverneur Correctional Facility.

Frequently asked questions about Gouverneur 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 Gouverneur Correctional Facility.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Gouverneur 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 Gouverneur 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 Gouverneur 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 Gouverneur 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 Gouverneur Correctional Facility?

   Mailing address:

   Gouverneur Correctional Facility
   112 Scotch Settlement Rd
   Gouverneur, NY 13642
   Phone: (315) 287-7351

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Gouverneur Correctional Facility?

   Visiting hours at Gouverneur 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 (315) 287-7351 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 Gouverneur 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 Gouverneur Correctional Facility for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Gouverneur Correctional Facility?

   You can send money to an inmate at Gouverneur 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 Gouverneur Correctional Facility?

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

Comprehensive rehabilitation programming forms the foundation of operations at Gouverneur Correctional Facility, with specialized services addressing the diverse needs of incarcerated individuals. The facility provides alcohol and substance abuse treatment programs alongside anger management initiatives, recognizing that addressing underlying behavioral issues is essential for successful reintegration. Educational and vocational programs offer pathways for skill development, while family development programs work to strengthen relationships that often serve as crucial support systems upon release.

Mental health and counseling services play a central role in the facility's approach, with guidance and counseling services available to help individuals navigate personal challenges and develop coping strategies. The facility typically maintains both general library services and a law library, enabling individuals to pursue educational interests and legal research. Religious services provide spiritual support and community connection, while recreational programs may offer physical fitness opportunities and structured activities that promote positive social interaction.

Specialized programming extends to targeted populations and specific needs, including sex offender treatment programs and trauma-focused interventions that address past experiences. Veterans services likely provide tailored support for those who have served in the military, while temporary release programs may offer graduated reintegration opportunities for eligible individuals. Transitional services programs often focus on pre-release planning, helping individuals develop housing, employment, and community support connections. The facility's volunteer services and programs typically enhance these offerings by bringing community members into the rehabilitation process, creating bridges between the incarcerated population and the broader community they will eventually rejoin.

Daily Life & Visitation

At Gouverneur Correctional Facility in St. Lawrence County, incarcerated individuals typically begin their days with structured routines that balance security requirements with opportunities for personal development. The medium-security facility for males operates with schedules that accommodate various programming activities, including educational and vocational training, substance abuse treatment, and recreational programs. Residents may participate in library services, religious activities, and counseling sessions throughout the week, with programming often designed to support successful reintegration into the community.

Family connections remain an important aspect of life at the facility through weekend and holiday visitation opportunities. Visitors can meet with their loved ones from 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM on weekends and holidays, with up to three visitors plus one child under five allowed per visit. The facility accommodates unlimited visits per day when space permits, though local visitors within 100 miles may have their visits limited to three hours during busy periods. For those in the Residential Rehabilitation Unit, evening visits from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM provide additional flexibility for maintaining family relationships.

The facility typically offers various support services that may include anger management programs, trauma treatment, veterans services, and transitional planning assistance. Educational opportunities, recreational activities, and volunteer programs often provide structure and purpose to daily routines. Like other New York State correctional facilities, Gouverneur likely maintains scheduled meal times, work assignments, and count procedures that create predictable daily patterns while allowing time for personal growth through available programming and services.