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 Newaygo County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Newaygo 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 Newaygo County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Newaygo County Jail
   1035 E James St
   White Cloud, MI 49349
   Phone: (231) 689-7024

   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 Newaygo County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Newaygo 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 (231) 689-7024 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 Newaygo 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 Newaygo County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Newaygo 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 Newaygo County Jail?

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

The Newaygo County Jail maintains comprehensive inmate services including commissary access, structured visitation programs, and telephone communications to help maintain family connections during incarceration. Located at 1035 E James Street in White Cloud, Michigan, the facility operates around the clock with administrative offices available during regular business hours. The jail’s evolution from a 36-bed facility in 1967 to its current 270-bed capacity reflects its commitment to meeting the county’s growing correctional needs while providing appropriate housing for inmates across all security classification levels.

Beyond basic services, the facility typically may offer educational programming to help inmates work toward GED completion or basic literacy improvement. Vocational training opportunities often include job readiness preparation and basic life skills development to support successful community reintegration. The jail may also provide substance abuse counseling and mental health support services, recognizing that many individuals in the correctional system benefit from addressing underlying issues that contributed to their incarceration.

The facility’s ability to house federal inmates for the U.S. Marshals Service demonstrates its operational standards and security protocols. Religious services and library access are commonly available to support inmates’ spiritual and educational needs during their stay. Work programs within the facility may include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, and laundry services, which help inmates develop work habits while contributing to facility operations. These comprehensive services work together to create a structured environment focused on accountability and preparation for successful community reentry.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Newaygo County Jail operates around the clock at its facility on East James Street in White Cloud, with administrative offices maintaining regular business hours Monday through Friday from 8am-12pm and 1pm-5pm. Within the facility’s many individuals housing units, inmates experience structured routines that vary based on their custody classification level, from maximum to minimum security designations.

Inmates typically begin their days with scheduled counts and meal service, followed by programming activities that may include work assignments, educational opportunities, or recreational time depending on their security level and behavior status. The facility’s design allows for appropriate separation of different custody classifications while maintaining necessary supervision. Communication with family and friends is facilitated through the inmate phone system, with specific policies governing call times and procedures. The jail also operates a commissary system where inmates can purchase approved items to supplement their basic needs.

Visitation at the Newaygo County Jail follows established schedules and procedures designed to maintain security while allowing important family connections. The facility provides information about bonding procedures and jail fees through its administrative office, helping families navigate the legal and financial aspects of incarceration. Mail policies are in place to ensure safe delivery of correspondence while maintaining institutional security. For families seeking information about inmates, the jail participates in the VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday) program, which provides automated notification services about custody status changes.