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 Kegans ISF.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Kegans ISF 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 Kegans ISF.

Frequently asked questions about Kegans ISF

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 Kegans ISF.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Kegans ISF?

   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 Kegans ISF?

   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 Kegans ISF. 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 Kegans ISF. 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 Kegans ISF?

   Mailing address:

   Kegans ISF
   707 Top St
   Houston, TX 77002
   Phone: (713) 224-6584

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Closed
   • Tuesday: Closed
   • Wednesday: Closed
   • Thursday: Closed
   • Friday: Closed
   • Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Kegans ISF?

   Visiting hours at Kegans ISF 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 (713) 224-6584 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 Kegans ISF?

   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 Kegans ISF for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Kegans ISF?

   You can send money to an inmate at Kegans ISF 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 Kegans ISF?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Kegans ISF, 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 Kegans ISF?

   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 Kegans ISF 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 Kegans ISF, 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

Educational advancement through computer literacy instruction forms the cornerstone of rehabilitative initiatives at Kegan ISF, where residents may access comprehensive programming designed to address diverse developmental needs. The facility typically emphasizes a multifaceted approach to reintegration, recognizing that successful community transition requires both practical skills and personal growth opportunities. Through carefully structured initiatives, residents often engage in meaningful activities that foster intellectual development, emotional stability, and vocational preparedness.

Academic enrichment initiatives frequently encompass computer literacy training, enabling residents to develop essential digital competencies increasingly vital in contemporary employment markets. Civic education components may complement these technological skills, providing residents with foundational knowledge regarding community participation and civic responsibilities. Moreover, vocational training opportunities typically offer hands-on instruction in various trades and technical fields, allowing participants to cultivate marketable skills that may enhance their employment prospects upon release. These educational and vocational initiatives often emphasize practical application, ensuring residents can translate classroom learning into real-world capabilities.

Therapeutic support services typically include mental health counseling designed to address underlying behavioral patterns and emotional challenges that may have contributed to incarceration. Work programs often provide structured environments where residents can develop professional habits, time management skills, and collaborative abilities while contributing to facility operations through building maintenance and other essential services. Moreover, faith-based initiatives may offer spiritual guidance and community support networks, recognizing the role that personal belief systems can play in rehabilitation and long-term behavioral change. These comprehensive support services typically work synergistically to create an environment conducive to personal transformation and successful community reintegration.

Daily Life & Visitation

The rhythmic cadence of count times and meal calls now creates a predictable framework that many residents find reassuring after periods of uncertainty. Structured wake-up procedures typically begin the day, followed by regularly scheduled activities that include work assignments, educational programming, and recreational periods. This consistent routine generally provides residents with a sense of stability, as they can anticipate what comes next in their daily schedule and plan accordingly for personal goals and family communication.

Living accommodations at the facility typically feature housing units designed to balance security requirements with basic comfort needs. Residents generally share living spaces that include essential furnishings and personal storage areas, where they may keep approved personal items and commissary purchases. Meals are usually served in designated dining areas according to a structured schedule, with residents rotating through meal periods based on their housing assignments. Moreover, the facility typically maintains outdoor recreation areas where residents can participate in physical activities and exercise during designated periods, helping to support both physical and mental well-being.

Programming schedules often deliver educational opportunities, vocational training, and therapeutic services throughout the week, allowing residents to work toward personal development goals. Whereas daily routines provide structure, visitation policies generally enable residents to maintain important family connections through scheduled visits and approved communication methods such as phone calls and correspondence. Work assignments within the facility typically include maintenance duties, food service, and other operational tasks that help residents develop skills while contributing to the facility’s daily operations, creating a sense of purpose within the structured environment.