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 Hyde Correctional Institute.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Hyde Correctional Institute 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 Hyde Correctional Institute.

Frequently asked questions about Hyde Correctional Institute

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 Hyde Correctional Institute.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Hyde Correctional Institute?

   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 Hyde Correctional Institute?

   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 Hyde Correctional Institute. 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 Hyde Correctional Institute. 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 Hyde Correctional Institute?

   Mailing address:

   Hyde Correctional Institute
   620 Prison Rd
   Swanquarter, NC 27885
   Phone: (252) 926-1810

5. What are the visiting hours at Hyde Correctional Institute?

   Visiting hours at Hyde Correctional Institute 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 (252) 926-1810 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 Hyde Correctional Institute?

   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 Hyde Correctional Institute for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Hyde Correctional Institute?

   You can send money to an inmate at Hyde Correctional Institute 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 Hyde Correctional Institute?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Hyde Correctional Institute, 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 Hyde Correctional Institute?

   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 Hyde Correctional Institute 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 Hyde Correctional Institute, 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 Father Accountability program at Hyde Correctional Institution represents part of the facility's comprehensive approach to addressing the diverse rehabilitation needs of incarcerated individuals. This minimum security facility, which underwent conversion from medium security in 2019, emphasizes behavioral change through programs like Thinking for a Change and Anger Management, while also addressing substance abuse issues through Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous meetings. The Reaching out from Within program further supports personal development, working alongside Career Readiness initiatives to prepare individuals for successful reintegration.

Educational opportunities form a cornerstone of Hyde CI's programming through its collaboration with Beaufort Community College. The facility provides Adult Basic Education and General Education Development (GED) classes for those working to complete their high school equivalency, while specialized vocational training includes Fork Lift certification and Horticulture classes that can lead to employment opportunities upon release. These educational partnerships typically extend beyond basic academics to include life skills development and job readiness training.

Like many North Carolina correctional facilities, Hyde CI may offer additional support services including religious programming, recreational activities, and work assignments that help maintain facility operations while providing valuable job experience. The facility's minimum security classification often allows for expanded programming opportunities and may include community service projects or work-release programs, though specific details of such programs would need verification. Mental health services and medical care are typically available to address the comprehensive needs of the population served at this 648-capacity facility.

Daily Life & Visitation

Residents at Hyde Correctional Institution begin each day within a minimum security environment that emphasizes rehabilitation and skill development. The facility's conversion to minimum custody status in 2019 has shaped a more open atmosphere where men can focus on personal growth through programs like Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, and Anger Management sessions. The structured daily schedule typically includes time for educational pursuits, with many residents attending Adult Basic Education or General Education Development classes offered in collaboration with Beaufort Community College.

Educational and vocational opportunities form a significant part of the daily routine, with residents often participating in specialized training such as Fork Lift certification and Horticulture classes. The Career Readiness program helps prepare individuals for employment upon release, while therapeutic programs like "Thinking for a Change" and "Reaching out from Within" provide tools for personal development. The Father Accountability program offers particular value for those working to strengthen family relationships during their incarceration.

Communication with family members remains an important aspect of daily life, with the facility maintaining standard visitation procedures and mail services. Residents may receive correspondence at the facility's mailing address in Swan Quarter, and families can typically send money and approved packages following established guidelines. The minimum security designation often allows for more flexible movement within the facility grounds, creating opportunities for outdoor recreation and work assignments that may include grounds maintenance or facility operations, helping residents maintain a sense of purpose and routine throughout their stay.