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 Lake Correctional Institution.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Lake Correctional Institution 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 Lake Correctional Institution.

Frequently asked questions about Lake Correctional Institution

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 Lake Correctional Institution.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Lake Correctional Institution?

   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 Lake Correctional Institution?

   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 Lake Correctional Institution. 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 Lake Correctional Institution. 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 Lake Correctional Institution?

   Mailing address:

   Lake Correctional Institution
   19225 US Hwy No. 27
   Clermont, FL 34715
   Phone: (352) 394-6146

   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 Lake Correctional Institution?

   Visiting hours at Lake Correctional Institution 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 (352) 394-6146 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 Lake Correctional Institution?

   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 Lake Correctional Institution for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Lake Correctional Institution?

   You can send money to an inmate at Lake Correctional Institution 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 Lake Correctional Institution?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Lake Correctional Institution, 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 Lake Correctional Institution?

   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 Lake Correctional Institution 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 Lake Correctional Institution, 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

Through comprehensive support services designed to address multiple aspects of personal development, the population at Lake C.I. receives assistance that extends far beyond basic incarceration. The facility's approach centers on building foundational skills that prepare individuals for successful community reintegration. These programs typically emphasize personal growth, family reconnection, and practical skill development through structured activities and therapeutic interventions.

Educational programs form a cornerstone of the supportive services available to the population. Academic instruction may supply basic literacy training, GED preparation, and vocational skill development that addresses employment barriers. Additionally, these educational opportunities often include computer literacy and life skills training that help participants develop confidence in their abilities. The programs are designed to accommodate various learning levels and may offer individualized instruction to meet specific needs.

Support services and therapeutic programs work together to address the complex challenges faced by the population. Substance abuse treatment provides crucial intervention for those struggling with addiction, while employment readiness programs help individuals develop job-seeking skills and workplace behaviors. Work release opportunities may allow eligible participants to maintain employment while completing their sentences, fostering community connections. Additionally, arts and crafts programs offer creative outlets that can reduce stress and provide therapeutic benefits, supporting overall mental health and personal expression during the reintegration process.

Daily Life & Visitation

Systematic organization forms the backbone of every interaction and movement within the facility, creating a predictable framework that guides the population through each day. Today's operations consistently follow established protocols that help maintain order while providing structure for personal routines. The population typically begins their day with scheduled counts and meal service, followed by work assignments, programming activities, and recreational periods that supply both purpose and routine to daily life.

Housing arrangements generally place residents in dormitory-style units or individual cells, depending on classification levels and available space. Living accommodations usually include basic furnishings and storage for approved personal property, while common areas may offer space for television viewing and social interaction. Additionally, the facility typically maintains a commissary system where the population can purchase approved items to supplement their basic needs, and dining services generally provide three meals daily in designated areas with scheduled serving times.

Structured programming schedules often include educational opportunities, vocational training, and recreational activities that help residents develop skills and maintain physical fitness. While security protocols govern all movements and activities, the facility typically offers various forms of family contact including scheduled visitation periods and telephone privileges. Work assignments throughout the facility may include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, and administrative support roles that provide both structure and potential skill development. The population generally has access to outdoor recreation areas and indoor fitness facilities, though specific scheduling depends on security classifications and facility capacity.