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 Idaho Correctional Institution.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Idaho Correctional Institution 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 Idaho Correctional Institution.

Frequently asked questions about Idaho Correctional Institution

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 Idaho Correctional Institution.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Idaho Correctional Institution?

   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 Idaho Correctional Institution?

   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 Idaho Correctional Institution. 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 Idaho Correctional Institution. 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 Idaho Correctional Institution?

   Mailing address:

   Idaho Correctional Institution
   381 W Hospital Dr
   Orofino, ID 83544
   Phone: (208) 476-3655

5. What are the visiting hours at Idaho Correctional Institution?

   Visiting hours at Idaho Correctional Institution 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 (208) 476-3655 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 Idaho Correctional Institution?

   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 Idaho Correctional Institution for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Idaho Correctional Institution?

   You can send money to an inmate at Idaho Correctional Institution 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 Idaho Correctional Institution?

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

   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 Idaho Correctional Institution 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 Idaho Correctional Institution, 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

Vocational work programs form a cornerstone of rehabilitation efforts at Idaho Correctional Institution - Orofino (ICIO), providing residents with practical skills training alongside educational opportunities and other programming designed to support successful reintegration. The facility’s work camp component, housed in Givens Hall adjacent to the main compound, typically offers structured work assignments that may include facility maintenance, groundskeeping, and various institutional support services that help residents develop job readiness skills and work experience.

Educational programming at ICIO often encompasses basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and continuing education opportunities that allow residents to advance their academic credentials during incarceration. The facility may also provide adult basic education classes, computer literacy training, and library services to support learning objectives. These educational initiatives frequently work in conjunction with the vocational programs to create comprehensive skill-building pathways for residents preparing for release.

Support services at the facility typically include counseling programs, substance abuse treatment, and case management services designed to address individual rehabilitation needs. ICIO may offer mental health services, anger management classes, and cognitive-behavioral programming that helps residents develop coping strategies and decision-making skills. The facility’s programming structure generally emphasizes personal accountability and positive behavioral change, with various therapeutic and educational interventions available to support residents in addressing the underlying factors that contributed to their incarceration.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Idaho Correctional Institution in Orofino operates as a medium-custody facility housing up to 580 male residents, with its comprehensive history as a former state school and mental health facility shaping its current campus-like environment. Residents typically begin their days with structured count times and meal service, followed by work assignments that may include positions in the adjacent Givens Hall work camp or various vocational programs offered throughout the facility. The institution’s design allows for both general population and protective-custody housing, ensuring appropriate placement based on individual security needs and circumstances.

Family connections remain an important aspect of life at ICIO, with established visiting schedules that allow residents to maintain relationships with loved ones. Visitors must complete an application process and familiarize themselves with facility rules before their established visit, as Idaho law strictly prohibits contraband including tobacco, cell phones, controlled substances, and other unauthorized items. The facility typically provides various communication options for residents to stay in touch with family members between visits, though specific policies may vary based on custody level and individual circumstances.

Educational and vocational programming opportunities help structure residents’ time and prepare them for eventual reintegration. The institution often offers various work programs that provide both skill development and purposeful daily activities, while educational services may include basic literacy, GED preparation, and other academic pursuits. These programs, combined with recreational activities and religious services commonly available at correctional facilities, help create a structured environment that balances security requirements with opportunities for personal growth and rehabilitation.