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 Gratiot County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Gratiot County Jail 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 Gratiot County Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Gratiot County Jail

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 Gratiot County Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Gratiot County Jail?

   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 Gratiot County Jail?

   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 Gratiot County Jail. 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 Gratiot County Jail. 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 Gratiot County Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Gratiot County Jail
   226 E Center St
   Ithaca, MI 48847
   Phone: (989) 875-5211

5. What are the visiting hours at Gratiot County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Gratiot County Jail 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 (989) 875-5211 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 Gratiot County Jail?

   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 Gratiot County Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Gratiot County Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Gratiot County Jail 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 Gratiot County Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Gratiot County Jail, 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 Gratiot County Jail?

   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 Gratiot County Jail 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 Gratiot County Jail, 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 breadth of developmental opportunities within Gratiot County Jail reflects a multifaceted approach to individual growth and community preparation. Rather than limiting focus to basic detention services, the facility typically emphasizes comprehensive programming that addresses diverse needs and skill development areas. This philosophy recognizes that meaningful change often emerges through varied pathways, allowing individuals to engage with opportunities that align with their specific circumstances and future goals.

Educational advancement forms a cornerstone of available opportunities, with education programs designed to address foundational learning needs and academic development. These initiatives may offer structured learning environments where individuals can work toward educational milestones that enhance their prospects upon release. Also available are vocational education opportunities that provide practical skill development, including specialized training in welding, which offers hands-on experience in a trade with substantial employment potential in Michigan's industrial landscape.

Therapeutic interventions and reentry support services complement the educational framework through targeted programming designed to address specific behavioral concerns and transition planning. Sex offender treatment opportunities may provide specialized therapeutic approaches for individuals requiring intensive intervention and behavioral modification support. Also integral to the comprehensive approach is the prisoner reentry initiative, which typically focuses on practical preparation for community reintegration, addressing essential elements such as employment readiness, housing considerations, and community resource connections that facilitate successful transitions from incarceration to independent living.

Daily Life & Visitation

The rhythmic sound of meal carts rolling through corridors marks one of the most anticipated moments in each day's carefully structured routine. At present, individuals housed at Gratiot County Jail actively participate in a daily schedule that typically begins with early morning counts and extends through evening lockdown procedures. The facility generally maintains consistent wake-up times, followed by breakfast service, and then various programming activities or work assignments that may offer structure and purpose throughout the day. Security rounds and regular counts punctuate these activities, while individuals often have designated periods for personal hygiene, correspondence, and quiet time within their housing areas.

Living accommodations at the facility typically consist of shared cells or dormitory-style housing units, where individuals generally have access to basic furnishings including beds, storage areas, and writing surfaces. However, personal space remains limited, and individuals usually must adapt to close quarters with others who may have different schedules or habits. The dining arrangements commonly involve scheduled meal times in designated areas, with menus that typically meet basic nutritional requirements while accommodating some dietary restrictions. Also, commissary services may offer additional food items and personal care products, though purchasing power often depends on available funds from family support or facility work assignments.

Recreational opportunities generally include access to television viewing areas, reading materials, and sometimes outdoor recreation periods when weather and security considerations permit. However, these activities typically operate on rotating schedules to accommodate different housing units and security levels. Visitation policies usually allow for scheduled visits with approved family members and friends, while communication options may include monitored phone calls and written correspondence. Also, work assignments within the facility often provide individuals with opportunities to earn small wages while contributing to daily operations, though these positions typically require approval and good standing within the facility's disciplinary system.