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 Niagara County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Niagara 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 Niagara County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Niagara County Jail
   5526 Niagara Street Ext
   Lockport, NY 14095
   Phone: (716) 438-3393

5. What are the visiting hours at Niagara County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Niagara 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 (716) 438-3393 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 Niagara 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 Niagara County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

From academic advancement to therapeutic intervention, the comprehensive array of opportunities at Niagara County Jail reflects a commitment to addressing the diverse needs of individuals during their incarceration. This multifaceted approach recognizes that meaningful change often requires access to various types of support and skill-building resources. The facility typically emphasizes creating pathways for personal growth through carefully structured programming that addresses both immediate needs and long-term goals.

Educational opportunities form a cornerstone of the facility's comprehensive offerings, with education services that may include basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and continuing education options. These academic programs often provide individuals with the foundational skills necessary for successful reintegration into their communities. Additionally, the educational framework typically supports various learning styles and educational backgrounds, ensuring that participants can engage meaningfully regardless of their starting point.

The facility's therapeutic and support services complement the educational opportunities through mental health support and specialized therapeutic programs designed to address underlying issues that may contribute to criminal behavior. Communication skills development often plays a central role in these offerings, helping individuals build the interpersonal abilities essential for maintaining healthy relationships and employment. Additionally, transitional planning services typically work alongside mentoring programs to create comprehensive support networks, while practical initiatives like recycling programs may offer individuals opportunities to develop work skills and contribute positively to their environment during incarceration.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of keys and radio chatter marks the beginning of each day, as individuals at Niagara County Jail wake to a structured environment designed around security protocols and institutional schedules. Daily routines currently follow a predictable pattern that typically begins with morning count and continues through designated meal times, programming periods, and evening lockdown procedures. The facility generally maintains consistent schedules that help individuals adapt to institutional life while providing opportunities for various activities throughout the day.

Living accommodations at the facility typically consist of shared housing units where individuals may be housed with one or more roommates, depending on classification levels and available space. The jail generally provides basic necessities including bedding, personal hygiene items, and institutional clothing, while individuals may often purchase additional items through the commissary system. Additionally, personal property policies usually allow for limited personal items, and the facility typically maintains climate-controlled environments with basic furnishings in each housing area.

Programming opportunities often include educational classes, substance abuse counseling, and religious services that offer structure during incarceration. Recreation periods may provide access to television viewing areas, reading materials, and limited physical exercise opportunities, though these activities typically operate within security constraints. While maintaining family connections can be challenging, the facility generally offers scheduled visitation periods and phone access that allow individuals to communicate with loved ones, helping to maintain important support systems during their time in custody.