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 Kentucky River Regional Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Kentucky River Regional Jail 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 Kentucky River Regional Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Kentucky River Regional Jail

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 Kentucky River Regional Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Kentucky River Regional Jail?

   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 Kentucky River Regional Jail?

   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 Kentucky River Regional Jail. 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 Kentucky River Regional Jail. 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 Kentucky River Regional Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Kentucky River Regional Jail
   200 Justice Dr
   Hazard, KY 41701
   Phone: (606) 436-4032

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Open 24 hours
   • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
   • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
   • Thursday: Open 24 hours
   • Friday: Open 24 hours
   • Saturday: Open 24 hours
   • Sunday: Open 24 hours

5. What are the visiting hours at Kentucky River Regional Jail?

   Visiting hours at Kentucky River Regional Jail 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 (606) 436-4032 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 Kentucky River Regional Jail?

   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 Kentucky River Regional Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Kentucky River Regional Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Kentucky River Regional Jail 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 Kentucky River Regional Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Kentucky River Regional Jail, 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 Kentucky River Regional Jail?

   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 Kentucky River Regional Jail 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 Kentucky River Regional Jail, 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 initiatives form the foundation of rehabilitation efforts, with comprehensive literacy programs helping residents develop essential reading and writing skills needed for successful reintegration. These academic services typically include GED preparation classes and basic education courses that allow participants to complete their high school equivalency while incarcerated. The facility often provides computer literacy training to ensure residents can navigate modern workplace requirements upon release.

Vocational training initiatives may deliver hands-on skills development in areas such as construction trades, food service, and maintenance work. These programs typically combine classroom instruction with practical application, allowing residents to earn industry-recognized certifications. In addition to this, identification document assistance helps participants obtain vital records like birth certificates and Social Security cards, which are essential for securing employment and housing after release.

Therapeutic initiatives focus on addressing underlying issues that may have contributed to criminal behavior, with substance abuse treatment programs offering both individual counseling and group sessions. Group therapy sessions typically provide peer support and coping strategies for managing addiction and mental health challenges. Religious services may offer spiritual guidance and community support, while these combined support services work together to address the complex needs of residents preparing for successful community reentry.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structure forms the foundation of each day as residents follow carefully organized schedules that currently provide predictability and stability. Morning routines typically begin early with count procedures, followed by meal service and work assignments that continue throughout the day. The facility generally maintains consistent timing for activities, meals, and programming, which helps residents develop steady daily patterns and routines.

Housing units at Kentucky River Regional Jail typically accommodate residents in shared cells or dormitory-style arrangements, depending on classification levels and available space. Meals are usually served in designated dining areas at scheduled times, with residents receiving nutritionally planned menus that meet dietary standards. In addition to this structured meal schedule, the commissary system generally allows residents to purchase approved personal items and snacks to supplement their daily needs.

Recreation and exercise opportunities typically include access to outdoor recreation areas and indoor facilities when weather permits, delivering both physical activity and stress relief. Work assignments may include kitchen duties, facility maintenance, laundry services, and other operational tasks that provide structure and responsibility. Despite this controlled environment, visitation policies usually allow for regular family contact through scheduled visits and phone calls, while programming schedules often include educational classes, substance abuse counseling, and other rehabilitative services that continue to support residents’ personal development during their stay.