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 Kent City Corrections Facility.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Kent City Corrections 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 Kent City Corrections Facility.

Frequently asked questions about Kent City Corrections 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 Kent City Corrections Facility.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Kent City Corrections 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 Kent City Corrections 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 Kent City Corrections 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 Kent City Corrections 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 Kent City Corrections Facility?

   Mailing address:

   Kent City Corrections Facility
   1230 Central Ave S
   Kent, WA 98032
   Phone: (253) 856-5960

   Business hours:

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

5. What are the visiting hours at Kent City Corrections Facility?

   Visiting hours at Kent City Corrections 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 (253) 856-5960 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 Kent City Corrections 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 Kent City Corrections Facility for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Kent City Corrections Facility?

   You can send money to an inmate at Kent City Corrections 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 Kent City Corrections Facility?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Kent City Corrections 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 Kent City Corrections 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 Kent City Corrections 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 Kent City Corrections 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 growth and skill development form the foundation of rehabilitation services at Kent Jail. The facility typically focuses on helping inmates build practical abilities and address underlying challenges that may have contributed to their incarceration. This comprehensive approach often includes educational opportunities, vocational training, and therapeutic support designed to prepare individuals for successful reintegration into their communities.

Educational services may provide inmates with opportunities to complete their high school equivalency or develop basic literacy skills. Vocational training programs often include hands-on instruction in culinary arts and carpentry, giving participants marketable skills they can use upon release. These educational and vocational services typically emphasize practical application and real-world experience to help inmates develop confidence in their abilities.

In addition to these skill-building opportunities, the facility may offer individual counseling services to address personal challenges and behavioral patterns. Work programs often provide inmates with structured daily activities and job experience within the facility. Transitional planning services typically help individuals prepare for release by connecting them with community resources and developing realistic goals for their return to society. These support services often work together to create a foundation for long-term success after incarceration.

Daily Life & Visitation

Behind the secure walls and controlled access points, inmates at Kent Jail navigate a highly structured environment where every aspect of daily life follows established protocols. Today’s routine typically begins with early morning counts, followed by meal service and scheduled programming activities. Inmates consistently adapt to this regimented schedule, finding ways to maintain personal routines within the facility’s framework.

Housing units generally accommodate inmates in dormitory-style or cell-based arrangements, depending on classification levels and available space. Living conditions typically include basic furnishings and personal storage areas where inmates may keep approved items from commissary purchases or family contributions. Meals are usually served in designated dining areas at scheduled times, with inmates rotating through in organized groups to maintain order and security.

In addition to this structured daily routine, Kent Jail may offer various recreational activities and work assignments that provide inmates with opportunities to stay active and develop skills. Exercise periods and recreational time typically occur in designated areas, while work programs often include facility maintenance, kitchen duties, or other institutional support roles. Despite this controlled environment, inmates generally maintain contact with family members through scheduled visitation periods and phone calls, which provide essential emotional support during their time at the facility.