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 Marion Correctional Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Marion Correctional Center 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 Marion Correctional Center.

Frequently asked questions about Marion Correctional Center

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 Marion Correctional Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Marion Correctional Center?

   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 Marion Correctional Center?

   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 Marion Correctional Center. 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 Marion Correctional Center. 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 Marion Correctional Center?

   Mailing address:

   Marion Correctional Center
   110 Wright St
   Marion, VA 24354
   Phone: (276) 783-7154

   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 Marion Correctional Center?

   Visiting hours at Marion Correctional Center 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 (276) 783-7154 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 Marion Correctional Center?

   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 Marion Correctional Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Marion Correctional Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Marion Correctional Center 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 Marion Correctional Center?

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

   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 Marion Correctional Center 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 Marion Correctional Center, 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

The breadth of developmental opportunities at Marion Corrections reflects a comprehensive approach to individual growth and community preparation. This facility typically emphasizes multiple pathways for personal advancement, recognizing that meaningful change often occurs through diverse programming that addresses educational, vocational, and behavioral needs. The philosophy centers on providing individuals with practical skills and knowledge that may support successful community reintegration while fostering personal responsibility and positive decision-making.

Educational opportunities often include academic programming designed to help individuals complete their high school equivalency credentials or advance their literacy skills. These educational services may be complemented by vocational training opportunities that focus on developing marketable job skills in various trades and industries. Such programming typically aims to provide hands-on experience and certification preparation that can translate into employment opportunities upon release.

In addition to this foundational programming, Marion Corrections may offer comprehensive support services that address behavioral and personal development needs. Cognitive behavioral programs often focus on helping individuals develop better decision-making skills, manage emotions effectively, and understand the impact of their choices on themselves and others. Library services typically provide access to educational materials, legal resources, and recreational reading, while music programs may offer creative outlets that support emotional expression and community building among participants.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of morning announcements echoes through housing units as individuals begin another structured day within the facility's routines. At present, daily life revolves around established schedules that actively guide residents through meals, work assignments, and programming activities. Wake-up typically occurs in the early morning hours, followed by cell inspections and headcounts that ensure security protocols are maintained throughout the facility.

Living accommodations generally consist of shared cells or dormitory-style housing units, where individuals maintain personal belongings within approved limits. Each housing area usually includes common spaces for television viewing and social interaction during designated periods. Meals are served in central dining facilities at scheduled times, with individuals moving in organized groups under staff supervision. The commissary system allows residents to purchase additional food items, hygiene products, and approved personal items using funds from their institutional accounts.

In addition to this basic structure, the facility typically offers various recreational and educational programs designed to provide constructive activities. Work assignments may include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, or facility operations that offer individuals opportunities to develop skills and earn modest wages. Despite this structured environment, family connections remain important through scheduled visitation periods and telephone privileges. Mail correspondence and approved video calling services generally provide additional means for individuals to maintain relationships with loved ones, while programming schedules often include educational classes, substance abuse counseling, and vocational training opportunities that support preparation for eventual reintegration.