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 Hampden County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Hampden 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 Hampden County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Hampden County Jail
   627 Randall Rd
   Ludlow, MA 01056
   Phone: (413) 547-8000

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 2:45 – 4:45 PM
   • 6:00 – 9:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 2:45 – 4:45 PM
   • 6:00 – 9:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 2:45 – 4:45 PM
   • 6:00 – 9:00 PM
   • Thursday: 2:45 – 4:45 PM
   • 6:00 – 9:00 PM
   • Friday: 2:45 – 4:45 PM
   • 6:00 – 9:00 PM
   • Saturday: 2:45 – 4:45 PM
   • 6:00 – 9:00 PM
   • Sunday: Closed

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

   Visiting hours at Hampden 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 (413) 547-8000 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 Hampden 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 Hampden County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Hampden 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 Hampden 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 Hampden 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 Hampden 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 Basic Inmates' Intensive Regimen at Hampden County Correctional Center requires all sentenced inmates to maintain a 40-hour work week through productive facility activities, establishing a structured foundation for rehabilitation from day one. This comprehensive approach includes targeted programs addressing substance abuse, education, employment readiness, anger management, and victim awareness, reflecting the facility's commitment to preparing inmates for successful community reintegration. The Unit Management and Direct Supervision operational model across the facility's 24 living units typically supports individualized programming and closer monitoring of inmate progress.

Educational services at the facility may include adult basic education, GED preparation, and literacy programs designed to address fundamental learning needs. Vocational training opportunities often focus on developing marketable job skills through facility work assignments and specialized programs. Mental health and counseling services are typically available to address underlying issues contributing to criminal behavior, while substance abuse treatment programs may include both group and individual counseling sessions to support recovery efforts.

The correctional center's philosophy emphasizes that successful reentry begins immediately upon incarceration, creating a continuum of support services aimed at developing law-abiding, productive citizens. Additional programs may include life skills training, financial literacy education, and pre-release planning services to help inmates transition back into the community. Religious services and recreational activities are often provided to support overall well-being, while family visitation programs help maintain important community connections during incarceration.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Basic Inmates' Intensive Regimen at Hampden County Correctional Center structures each day around a comprehensive 40-hour work week, where residents participate in productive activities designed to prepare them for successful community reentry. Within the facility's seven buildings and 24 living units, inmates typically begin their days early with scheduled counts and meals, followed by work assignments or programming sessions that may include substance abuse treatment, educational classes, employment training, anger management, and victim awareness programs. The Unit Management and Direct Supervision approach means that correctional staff work closely with residents in their designated living areas, creating a more interactive environment compared to traditional correctional settings.

The medium-security facility's philosophy emphasizes that rehabilitation begins immediately upon arrival, with programming and work opportunities available throughout the week. Residents may be assigned to various jobs within the institution, such as food service, maintenance, laundry, or administrative support, depending on their skills and the facility's needs. Educational opportunities often include GED preparation, vocational training, and life skills workshops that focus on practical knowledge for community reintegration. Evening hours typically involve additional programming, recreational activities, or personal time within the housing units.

Communication with family and friends generally follows standard correctional protocols, with scheduled visiting hours, monitored phone calls, and mail services available to help maintain important relationships during incarceration. The facility's commitment to preparing residents for successful reentry means that programming often extends into evening hours, with various support groups and counseling sessions designed to address the underlying issues that may have contributed to criminal behavior. This structured approach aims to use the entire period of incarceration as an opportunity for positive change and skill development.