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 John A Graham Correctional Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at John A Graham Correctional 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 John A Graham Correctional Center.

Frequently asked questions about John A Graham Correctional 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 John A Graham Correctional Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to John A Graham Correctional 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 John A Graham Correctional 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 John A Graham Correctional 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 John A Graham Correctional 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 John A Graham Correctional Center?

   Mailing address:

   John A Graham Correctional Center
   12078 IL-185
   Hillsboro, IL 62049
   Phone: (217) 532-6961

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
   • Thursday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
   • Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
   • Saturday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
   • Sunday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at John A Graham Correctional Center?

   Visiting hours at John A Graham Correctional 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 (217) 532-6961 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 John A Graham Correctional 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 John A Graham Correctional Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at John A Graham Correctional Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at John A Graham Correctional 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 John A Graham Correctional Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At John A Graham Correctional 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 John A Graham Correctional 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 John A Graham Correctional 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 John A Graham Correctional 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

Substance abuse treatment programs and specialized medical services, including a kidney dialysis program, form the cornerstone of rehabilitation efforts at Graham Correctional Center. The facility houses several special populations and continues to provide numerous academic opportunities for individuals in custody, reflecting a comprehensive approach to addressing both health needs and educational advancement during incarceration.

The center's programming typically encompasses educational services that may include adult basic education, GED preparation, and vocational training opportunities designed to prepare individuals for successful reentry. Mental health and counseling services are often available to support those dealing with various challenges, while substance abuse treatment programs specifically address addiction issues that may have contributed to criminal behavior. The facility may also offer life skills workshops, anger management courses, and other behavioral programs aimed at reducing recidivism.

Support services at Graham Correctional Center likely include library access, recreational activities, and religious services to promote personal development and maintain community connections. The facility's video visitation system, operating seven days a week with extended hours, helps individuals maintain important family relationships during their incarceration. Work assignments and institutional jobs may provide valuable experience and structure, while medical services ensure ongoing healthcare needs are met, including the specialized kidney dialysis program for those requiring this critical treatment.

Daily Life & Visitation

At Graham Correctional Center in Hillsboro, Illinois, individuals in custody begin each day within a medium-security environment that houses approximately 1,578 people across two facilities. The center operates with structured routines that accommodate various special populations, including those participating in substance abuse treatment programs and individuals requiring kidney dialysis services. Morning activities typically begin early with count procedures, followed by work assignments, educational programs, or medical appointments depending on individual schedules and custody classifications.

Family connections remain an important aspect of life at Graham, with video visitation available seven days a week from 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM and again from 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM. Visitors must schedule appointments in advance and are encouraged to log on 15 minutes before their scheduled time. The facility utilizes ICSolutions technology for both video visits and electronic messaging through CorrLinks, allowing individuals to maintain regular contact with loved ones. Traditional mail correspondence is also available, with all correspondence addressed to the individual's name and IDOC number at the Hillsboro facility address.

Throughout the day, individuals may participate in various programs and activities designed to support rehabilitation and personal development. The facility typically offers educational opportunities, vocational training, and therapeutic programs tailored to different needs within the population. Evening hours often include recreational activities, additional program participation, or personal time before the final count of the day. With an operational capacity of over 2,000 beds, Graham maintains structured schedules that balance security requirements with opportunities for personal growth and family connection.