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 Jack Harwell Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Jack Harwell Detention 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 Jack Harwell Detention Center.

Frequently asked questions about Jack Harwell Detention 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 Jack Harwell Detention Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Jack Harwell Detention 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 Jack Harwell Detention 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 Jack Harwell Detention 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 Jack Harwell Detention 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 Jack Harwell Detention Center?

   Mailing address:

   Jack Harwell Detention Center
   3101 Marlin Hwy
   Waco, TX 76705
   Phone: (254) 759-5900

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Closed
   • Tuesday: 1:00 – 9:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 1:00 – 9:00 PM
   • Thursday: 1:00 – 9:00 PM
   • Friday: 1:00 – 9:00 PM
   • Saturday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Jack Harwell Detention Center?

   Visiting hours at Jack Harwell Detention 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 (254) 759-5900 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 Jack Harwell Detention 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 Jack Harwell Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Jack Harwell Detention Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Jack Harwell Detention 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 Jack Harwell Detention Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Jack Harwell Detention 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 Jack Harwell Detention 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 Jack Harwell Detention 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 Jack Harwell Detention 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

Personal growth and skill development form the foundation of rehabilitation services at Jack Harwell Detention Center. The facility typically emphasizes helping inmates build practical abilities and address underlying issues that may have contributed to their incarceration. This comprehensive approach often includes educational opportunities, vocational training, and therapeutic interventions designed to support successful reintegration into the community.

Educational services may provide inmates with opportunities to pursue college correspondence courses, allowing them to work toward degrees while incarcerated. These academic programs often help participants develop critical thinking skills and expand their knowledge base. Additionally, vocational training services typically focus on teaching practical job skills that can lead to employment opportunities upon release. These hands-on programs may include various trade skills and technical training that align with local job market demands.

Work programs often give inmates the chance to develop responsibility and work experience within the facility environment. Faith-based initiatives may provide spiritual guidance and community support for those seeking this type of assistance during their incarceration. Additionally, specialized therapeutic services such as sex offender treatment typically address specific behavioral issues through structured counseling and intervention programs. These various services work together to create a framework that supports personal development and prepares inmates for successful reentry into society.

Daily Life & Visitation

The housing units at Jack Harwell Detention Center feature dormitory-style accommodations where inmates navigate shared living spaces and establish daily routines. At present, the facility actively maintains structured schedules that typically begin with early morning wake-up calls and count procedures. Inmates generally follow established meal times, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner served in designated dining areas where they adapt to communal eating arrangements and limited time frames.

Living conditions typically include bunk-style sleeping arrangements within housing units that accommodate multiple inmates. Personal property allowances are generally limited, though inmates may access commissary services to purchase approved items. While the environment requires significant adjustment, inmates often develop coping strategies and form support networks within their housing units. Additionally, the facility provides basic amenities and maintains security protocols that inmates must navigate as part of their daily experience.

Structured programming schedules may offer educational classes, substance abuse counseling, and vocational training opportunities that provide inmates with constructive ways to spend their time. Recreation periods typically include access to outdoor areas or gymnasium facilities where physical activity helps inmates manage stress. Family connections remain important through visitation programs and telephone privileges, though these services operate within established security guidelines. Work assignments within the facility often include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, and cleaning responsibilities that give inmates structure while contributing to facility operations.