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 Lorain/Medina Community Based Correctional Facility.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Lorain/Medina Community Based Correctional 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 Lorain/Medina Community Based Correctional Facility.

Frequently asked questions about Lorain/Medina Community Based Correctional 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 Lorain/Medina Community Based Correctional Facility.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Lorain/Medina Community Based Correctional 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 Lorain/Medina Community Based Correctional 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 Lorain/Medina Community Based Correctional 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 Lorain/Medina Community Based Correctional 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 Lorain/Medina Community Based Correctional Facility?

   Mailing address:

   Lorain/Medina Community Based Correctional Facility
   9892 Murray Ridge Rd
   Elyria, OH 44035
   Phone: (440) 281-9708

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Lorain/Medina Community Based Correctional Facility?

   Visiting hours at Lorain/Medina Community Based Correctional 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 (440) 281-9708 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 Lorain/Medina Community Based Correctional 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 Lorain/Medina Community Based Correctional Facility for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Lorain/Medina Community Based Correctional Facility?

   You can send money to an inmate at Lorain/Medina Community Based Correctional 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 Lorain/Medina Community Based Correctional Facility?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Lorain/Medina Community Based Correctional 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 Lorain/Medina Community Based Correctional 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 Lorain/Medina Community Based Correctional 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 Lorain/Medina Community Based Correctional 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

Comprehensive rehabilitation initiatives at Lorain/Medina CBCF focus on building essential life skills through structured programming. The facility typically emphasizes a holistic approach that addresses educational gaps, vocational development, and personal growth needs. Residents may participate in multiple initiatives simultaneously, creating a comprehensive foundation for successful community reintegration.

Educational initiatives often include basic literacy programs, GED preparation, and adult basic education courses. These programs typically address fundamental academic skills while building confidence in learning environments. Moreover, vocational job training initiatives may deliver hands-on experience in trades such as construction, maintenance, food service, and manufacturing. Residents often participate in structured apprenticeship-style programs that combine classroom instruction with practical application, preparing them for employment opportunities upon release.

Support services form a critical component of the facility’s rehabilitation approach. Recovery services typically address substance abuse issues through counseling and group therapy sessions. Life coaching initiatives may deliver personalized guidance on goal-setting, decision-making, and problem-solving skills. Employment readiness programs often include resume writing, interview preparation, and workplace behavior training. Moreover, transitional planning services typically help residents develop concrete release plans, including housing arrangements and job placement assistance. Prison industries initiatives may provide work experience in facility operations while teaching valuable employment skills and work ethics.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structure begins before dawn and continues throughout each day, delivering consistency that many residents find stabilizing during their time at the facility. The daily routine currently follows a predictable pattern that includes scheduled meal times, work assignments, programming activities, and designated periods for personal time and recreation. This framework continues to provide residents with clear expectations and helps establish productive habits.

Living accommodations typically consist of shared housing units where residents may have roommates and access to basic amenities. Moreover, the facility generally provides three meals daily in a communal dining area, with menus that often include variety while meeting nutritional standards. Residents usually have opportunities for recreation and exercise through access to outdoor areas, recreational equipment, and organized activities that may include sports or fitness programs.

Work assignments deliver additional structure to daily life, with residents typically participating in facility operations such as kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, or other institutional jobs. Whereas work schedules occupy much of the day, residents generally have access to educational programming, counseling services, and other structured activities designed to support rehabilitation goals. Family connections remain important, with visitation policies that usually allow scheduled visits and communication options that may include phone calls and correspondence, helping residents maintain relationships with loved ones during their stay.