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 Missouri Department of Corrections - Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and Correctional Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Missouri Department of Corrections - Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and 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 Missouri Department of Corrections - Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and Correctional Center.

Frequently asked questions about Missouri Department of Corrections - Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and 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 Missouri Department of Corrections - Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and Correctional Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Missouri Department of Corrections - Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and 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 Missouri Department of Corrections - Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and 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 Missouri Department of Corrections - Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and 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 Missouri Department of Corrections - Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and 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 Missouri Department of Corrections - Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and Correctional Center?

   Mailing address:

   Missouri Department of Corrections - Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and Correctional Center
   1101 US-54
   Vandalia, MO 63382
   Phone: (573) 594-6686

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Thursday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Friday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Sunday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Missouri Department of Corrections - Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and Correctional Center?

   Visiting hours at Missouri Department of Corrections - Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and 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 (573) 594-6686 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 Missouri Department of Corrections - Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and 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 Missouri Department of Corrections - Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and Correctional Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Missouri Department of Corrections - Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and Correctional Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Missouri Department of Corrections - Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and 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 Missouri Department of Corrections - Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and Correctional Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Missouri Department of Corrections - Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and 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 Missouri Department of Corrections - Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and 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 Missouri Department of Corrections - Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and 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 Missouri Department of Corrections - Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and 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

Educational and vocational initiatives form the cornerstone of rehabilitation efforts, providing residents with practical skills and academic advancement opportunities. The facility's approach emphasizes building foundational competencies that translate directly into post-release employment prospects. This comprehensive strategy recognizes that meaningful reintegration requires both personal growth and marketable abilities that residents can utilize upon returning to their communities.

Education programs typically encompass basic literacy development, GED preparation, and adult basic education courses designed to address varying skill levels among the resident population. Additionally, vocational training initiatives may deliver hands-on instruction in trades such as small engine repair, which provides residents with technical expertise in equipment maintenance and mechanical problem-solving. These educational and vocational components often work together to create a structured learning environment where residents can progress academically while simultaneously developing practical job skills that employers value in the current market.

Support services and therapeutic initiatives address the underlying factors that often contribute to incarceration patterns. Arts and crafts programs may offer creative outlets that promote emotional expression and stress management while building fine motor skills and attention to detail. Additionally, comprehensive treatment options typically include substance abuse treatment, mental health counseling, and dual diagnosis treatment for residents managing co-occurring disorders. These therapeutic initiatives often utilize evidence-based approaches to help residents develop coping strategies, process trauma, and build the emotional resilience necessary for successful community reintegration.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structure forms the backbone of each day, with carefully planned schedules that currently guide residents through consistent routines from morning wake-up calls through evening lights-out. This predictable framework continues to provide stability and purpose, helping residents adapt to institutional life while maintaining focus on rehabilitation goals. The daily rhythm typically includes designated times for meals, work assignments, educational programs, and personal activities.

Living accommodations at the facility generally feature dormitory-style housing units or individual cells, depending on classification levels and security requirements. Residents usually share common areas for dining and recreation, while personal belongings may be stored in designated spaces within their assigned housing areas. The commissary typically operates on scheduled days, allowing residents to purchase approved personal items and snacks to supplement their daily needs. Additionally, meal service delivers consistent nutrition through three daily meals served in communal dining areas, with menus that often accommodate basic dietary restrictions and religious requirements.

Programming specifically designed for women continues to address various needs, including parenting classes and family reunification support that help residents maintain connections with their children. Recreation opportunities typically include exercise periods in designated areas, library access, and structured activities that promote both physical and mental well-being. While visitation policies generally allow for regular family contact, communication options may also include monitored phone calls and correspondence to help residents stay connected with their support systems. Additionally, various educational and vocational programs often deliver practical skills training that can assist with successful reintegration into the community upon release.