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 Madera County Department of Corrections.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Madera County Department of Corrections 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 Madera County Department of Corrections.

Frequently asked questions about Madera County Department of Corrections

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 Madera County Department of Corrections.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Madera County Department of Corrections?

   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 Madera County Department of Corrections?

   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 Madera County Department of Corrections. 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 Madera County Department of Corrections. 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 Madera County Department of Corrections?

   Mailing address:

   Madera County Department of Corrections
   14191 Rd 28
   Madera, CA 93638
   Phone: (559) 675-7951

   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 Madera County Department of Corrections?

   Visiting hours at Madera County Department of Corrections 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 (559) 675-7951 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 Madera County Department of Corrections?

   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 Madera County Department of Corrections for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Madera County Department of Corrections?

   You can send money to an inmate at Madera County Department of Corrections 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 Madera County Department of Corrections?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Madera County Department of Corrections, 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 Madera County Department of Corrections?

   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 Madera County Department of Corrections 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 Madera County Department of Corrections, 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 opportunities within Madera County Jail focus on building essential life skills and addressing underlying challenges that contribute to criminal behavior. The facility's approach emphasizes structured learning environments where those incarcerated can develop practical abilities while working through personal issues. These offerings typically operate within a secure framework that maintains safety while encouraging meaningful participation and self-improvement.

Educational initiatives may furnish basic literacy instruction and GED preparation for those seeking to complete their high school education. Vocational training opportunities often include practical skills development in areas such as construction trades, food service, or maintenance work that can translate to employment prospects upon release. Furthermore, these structured learning environments provide those incarcerated with routine and purpose during their time at the facility.

Rehabilitation programs typically address substance abuse issues and behavioral patterns through group sessions and individual counseling. Grief counseling services may offer support for those processing loss or trauma that contributed to their current circumstances. Arts and crafts activities often provide therapeutic outlets for creative expression while developing patience and focus. These support services work together to help those incarcerated build coping strategies and develop healthier approaches to managing life challenges.

Daily Life & Visitation

Family connections and social bonds remain central to the experience of those incarcerated at this facility, where structured routines actively support community interaction throughout each day. At present, residents typically follow scheduled meal times, recreation periods, and program activities that furnish opportunities for meaningful social engagement. The daily structure generally includes morning wake-up calls, assigned work duties or educational programming, and designated times for personal activities and correspondence.

Housing arrangements typically consist of dormitory-style units or individual cells, depending on classification levels and available space. Those incarcerated usually share common areas for meals, recreation, and programming activities. Furthermore, the facility generally provides basic necessities while allowing residents to purchase additional items through the commissary system, which may include snacks, hygiene products, and writing materials to help maintain connections with family members.

Recreation and exercise opportunities often include outdoor yard time, indoor activities, and structured sports when weather and security conditions permit. Although visitation schedules vary, the facility typically offers regular visiting hours to help those incarcerated maintain relationships with family and friends. Communication options generally include monitored phone calls and written correspondence, while work assignments may involve kitchen duties, facility maintenance, or laundry services that provide structure and social interaction. Educational programming and counseling services often furnish additional opportunities for personal development and community building within the facility environment.