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 Joe F Gurney Transfer Facility.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Joe F Gurney Transfer Facility 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 Joe F Gurney Transfer Facility.

Frequently asked questions about Joe F Gurney Transfer Facility

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 Joe F Gurney Transfer Facility.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Joe F Gurney Transfer Facility?

   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 Joe F Gurney Transfer Facility?

   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 Joe F Gurney Transfer Facility. 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 Joe F Gurney Transfer Facility. 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 Joe F Gurney Transfer Facility?

   Mailing address:

   Joe F Gurney Transfer Facility
   1385 Farm-To-Market Rd 3328
   Palestine, TX 75803
   Phone: (903) 928-3118

5. What are the visiting hours at Joe F Gurney Transfer Facility?

   Visiting hours at Joe F Gurney Transfer Facility 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 (903) 928-3118 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 Joe F Gurney Transfer Facility?

   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 Joe F Gurney Transfer Facility for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Joe F Gurney Transfer Facility?

   You can send money to an inmate at Joe F Gurney Transfer Facility 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 Joe F Gurney Transfer Facility?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Joe F Gurney Transfer Facility, 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 Joe F Gurney Transfer Facility?

   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 Joe F Gurney Transfer Facility 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 Joe F Gurney Transfer Facility, 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 development takes center stage through carefully structured offerings that emphasize skill-building and behavioral growth. Those incarcerated have access to a comprehensive range of opportunities designed to build practical abilities while addressing underlying issues that may have contributed to their circumstances. The facility's approach focuses on creating pathways for meaningful change through consistent participation and measurable progress.

Educational and vocational offerings typically include hands-on training programs that prepare participants for employment opportunities upon release. Welding instruction may furnish those incarcerated with valuable technical skills that are in high demand across various industries. In addition to this, broader vocational training often includes multiple trade specializations, allowing participants to explore different career paths and develop expertise in areas that match their interests and aptitudes.

Support services and therapeutic offerings work together to address both practical needs and personal challenges. Work programs may provide structure and responsibility while building job readiness skills. Faith-based initiatives often include spiritual guidance and community support for those seeking this type of growth opportunity. In addition to this, anger management sessions typically focus on developing healthy coping strategies and communication skills. Printing operations may furnish participants with technical experience while contributing to facility operations, creating a productive environment that benefits both individual development and institutional needs.

Daily Life & Visitation

Strong bonds between those incarcerated and their families remain essential to daily life at this Texas correctional facility. At present, residents actively participate in structured routines that begin with early morning counts and meals served in communal dining areas. The day typically includes work assignments, educational programming, and recreational periods that furnish opportunities for social interaction and personal development.

Housing units generally accommodate multiple residents in dormitory-style arrangements, though some areas may offer different configurations based on classification levels. Those incarcerated typically share common areas where they can engage in conversations, watch television, or participate in group activities. Personal property allowances usually include basic necessities and approved items that help maintain connections to life outside the facility walls.

In addition to this structured environment, various programs furnish educational and vocational training opportunities throughout the week. Recreation periods often include outdoor exercise, sports activities, and access to library services that support both personal growth and community building. Family connections remain vital through scheduled visitation periods and telephone privileges, while commissary services typically allow residents to purchase additional items that enhance their daily experience. Despite this institutional setting, many find ways to maintain meaningful relationships and prepare for eventual reintegration into their communities.