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 Henry Wade Juvenile Justice Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Henry Wade Juvenile Justice Center 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 Henry Wade Juvenile Justice Center.

Frequently asked questions about Henry Wade Juvenile Justice Center

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 Henry Wade Juvenile Justice Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Henry Wade Juvenile Justice Center?

   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 Henry Wade Juvenile Justice Center?

   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 Henry Wade Juvenile Justice Center. 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 Henry Wade Juvenile Justice Center. 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 Henry Wade Juvenile Justice Center?

   Mailing address:

   Henry Wade Juvenile Justice Center
   2600 Lone Star Dr
   Dallas, TX 75212
   Phone: (214) 698-2200

   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 Henry Wade Juvenile Justice Center?

   Visiting hours at Henry Wade Juvenile Justice Center 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 (214) 698-2200 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 Henry Wade Juvenile Justice Center?

   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 Henry Wade Juvenile Justice Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Henry Wade Juvenile Justice Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Henry Wade Juvenile Justice Center 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 Henry Wade Juvenile Justice Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Henry Wade Juvenile Justice Center, 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 Henry Wade Juvenile Justice Center?

   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 Henry Wade Juvenile Justice Center 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 Henry Wade Juvenile Justice Center, 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

Educational advancement and personal development form the foundation of rehabilitation initiatives at Dallas County Youth Village. The facility typically emphasizes skill-building approaches that prepare residents for successful community reintegration. These initiatives often focus on practical life skills combined with therapeutic support services that address underlying behavioral challenges.

Financial literacy education serves as a cornerstone of the educational initiatives offered to residents. This instruction may deliver essential knowledge about budgeting, banking, and financial responsibility through structured coursework. Moreover, vocational training initiatives provide hands-on learning opportunities in various trade skills that can lead to employment after release. These programs often include certification pathways that residents can complete during their stay.

Work programs typically offer residents the opportunity to develop employment skills while contributing to facility operations. Faith-based initiatives may provide spiritual guidance and community support for interested participants. Moreover, specialized training in barbering and cosmetology often delivers marketable skills that can support residents' transition to independent living. These support services frequently include mentorship components that help residents apply their newly acquired skills in real-world settings.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured wake-up calls now mark the beginning of each day, with residents following carefully planned schedules that deliver consistency and predictability. Daily routines typically include designated times for meals, educational programming, recreational activities, and personal hygiene, helping young people develop healthy habits and time management skills. Residents regularly participate in group activities and individual counseling sessions that support their personal development and rehabilitation goals.

Moreover, living accommodations generally feature dormitory-style housing units where residents share rooms with peers under staff supervision. The facility typically provides basic furnishings, bedding, and storage space for approved personal items. Residents usually have access to common areas for socializing and group activities, whereas individual rooms offer quiet spaces for rest and reflection. Meals are typically served in communal dining areas at scheduled times, providing balanced nutrition and opportunities for social interaction.

The facility often delivers age-appropriate educational programs and recreational opportunities designed to engage young residents constructively. Physical activities may include outdoor recreation, sports, and exercise programs that promote physical health and teamwork skills. Family connections are generally maintained through scheduled visitation periods and supervised phone calls, helping residents stay connected with their support systems. Residents typically have access to commissary services for approved personal items and may participate in various therapeutic and life skills programs throughout their stay.