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 Hancock County Port & Harbor.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Hancock County Port & Harbor 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 Hancock County Port & Harbor.

Frequently asked questions about Hancock County Port & Harbor

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 Hancock County Port & Harbor.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Hancock County Port & Harbor?

   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 Hancock County Port & Harbor?

   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 Hancock County Port & Harbor. 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 Hancock County Port & Harbor. 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 Hancock County Port & Harbor?

   Mailing address:

   Hancock County Port & Harbor
   14054 Fred and Al Key Rd
   Kiln, MS 39556
   Phone: (228) 467-9231

   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 Hancock County Port & Harbor?

   Visiting hours at Hancock County Port & Harbor 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 (228) 467-9231 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 Hancock County Port & Harbor?

   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 Hancock County Port & Harbor for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Hancock County Port & Harbor?

   You can send money to an inmate at Hancock County Port & Harbor 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 Hancock County Port & Harbor?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Hancock County Port & Harbor, 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 Hancock County Port & Harbor?

   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 Hancock County Port & Harbor 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 Hancock County Port & Harbor, 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

Personal transformation begins with access to meaningful opportunities, and those incarcerated at Hancock County PSC encounter a structured environment designed to foster individual growth and skill development. The facility's comprehensive approach emphasizes both personal accountability and practical preparation for successful community reintegration. Through carefully organized offerings, participants can engage in activities that build confidence, develop marketable skills, and strengthen their foundation for positive change.

Educational advancement serves as a cornerstone of the facility's development philosophy. Those incarcerated may access education services that typically include basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and continuing education opportunities tailored to individual learning needs. Furthermore, vocational programs often provide hands-on training in practical trades and technical skills that enhance employment prospects upon release. These structured learning environments create pathways for participants to acquire credentials and certifications that may prove valuable in their future endeavors.

Support services complement the educational and vocational offerings through a range of programs addressing personal growth and community preparation. Faith-based initiatives typically provide spiritual guidance and moral development opportunities for those seeking such support. The facility may furnish reentry preparation services that focus on practical life skills, job readiness training, and transition planning. Additionally, creative outlets such as arts and crafts programs and specialized training like upholstery work offer therapeutic benefits while developing practical abilities that can serve both personal satisfaction and potential income generation.

Daily Life & Visitation

Family connections and community bonds remain central to the experience of those incarcerated at Hancock County PSC, where maintaining relationships with loved ones often provides essential support throughout their time at the facility. At present, the daily routine actively revolves around structured schedules that typically begin with early morning counts and meal service. Those incarcerated generally follow established timeframes for meals, work assignments, and programming activities that furnish stability and purpose to each day.

Furthermore, living accommodations typically consist of dormitory-style housing units or individual cells, depending on classification levels and available space within the facility. Those incarcerated usually share common areas for dining and recreation, creating opportunities for social interaction during designated periods. Meals are generally served in a central dining area at scheduled times, with menu options that may vary throughout the week to provide some variety in the daily routine.

Although security procedures are maintained throughout the facility, recreational activities and programming opportunities typically include educational classes, vocational training, and physical exercise periods that help those incarcerated develop skills and maintain their well-being. Visitation policies generally allow for regular contact with family members and approved visitors, while communication options may include telephone access and correspondence privileges. Work assignments within the facility often provide structure and purpose, with various jobs available in areas such as kitchen services, maintenance, and facility operations that help maintain daily operations while offering valuable experience.