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 Mc Minn County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Mc Minn County 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 Mc Minn County Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Mc Minn County 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 Mc Minn County Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Mc Minn County 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 Mc Minn County 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 Mc Minn County 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 Mc Minn County 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 Mc Minn County Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Mc Minn County Jail
   1319 S White St
   Athens, TN 37303
   Phone: (423) 745-5620

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Thursday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Mc Minn County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Mc Minn County 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 (423) 745-5620 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 Mc Minn County 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 Mc Minn County Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Mc Minn County Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Mc Minn County 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 Mc Minn County Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Mc Minn County 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 Mc Minn County 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 Mc Minn County 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 Mc Minn County 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

Personal growth opportunities form the foundation of rehabilitation efforts within McMinn County Jail. The facility typically emphasizes helping inmates develop essential life skills and address underlying issues that may have contributed to their incarceration. Through a comprehensive approach to personal development, inmates often have access to services designed to prepare them for successful reintegration into their communities.

Educational advancement serves as a cornerstone of the facility’s development-focused services. Inmates may participate in GED preparation courses that help them complete their high school education and improve their academic foundation. Additionally, vocational training services often provide hands-on learning experiences in various trade skills, giving participants practical knowledge they can apply in future employment opportunities. These educational services typically focus on building both basic literacy skills and specialized job-related competencies.

Support services address the diverse needs of the inmate population through targeted interventions. Faith-based services may offer spiritual guidance and community connections for those seeking religious support during their incarceration. Veterans who are inmates often have access to specialized services that address their comprehensive experiences and challenges. Additionally, therapeutic services such as anger management classes help participants develop better emotional regulation and conflict resolution skills. Victim awareness services may also be available, helping inmates understand the impact of their actions and develop empathy as part of their rehabilitation process.

Daily Life & Visitation

The housing units at McMinn County Jail typically feature dormitory-style accommodations and individual cells, depending on classification levels and available space. Inmates at present follow structured daily schedules that actively incorporate meal times, recreational periods, and various programming opportunities. The facility generally maintains consistent routines that help residents adapt to the institutional environment while providing necessary structure throughout their stay.

Living conditions within the facility typically include basic furnishings and personal storage areas where inmates may keep approved personal items. Meals are usually served in designated dining areas at scheduled times, with menus that meet nutritional requirements. Additionally, inmates often have access to commissary services where they can purchase approved items using funds from their accounts. While the environment may initially seem challenging, most residents gradually adapt to the daily rhythm and expectations of facility life.

The jail typically provides recreational activities and exercise opportunities during designated periods, which help inmates maintain physical fitness and mental well-being. Work assignments within the facility may include kitchen duties, cleaning responsibilities, and general maintenance tasks that provide structure and purpose. Additionally, visitation policies generally allow inmates to maintain contact with family members and friends through scheduled visits and phone calls. These connections often prove essential in helping residents cope with their circumstances and prepare for their eventual release back into the community.