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 NORTHLAKE CORRECTIONAL FACILITY.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at NORTHLAKE CORRECTIONAL FACILITY 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 NORTHLAKE CORRECTIONAL FACILITY.

Frequently asked questions about NORTHLAKE CORRECTIONAL FACILITY

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 NORTHLAKE CORRECTIONAL FACILITY.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to NORTHLAKE CORRECTIONAL FACILITY?

   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 NORTHLAKE CORRECTIONAL FACILITY?

   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 NORTHLAKE CORRECTIONAL FACILITY. 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 NORTHLAKE CORRECTIONAL FACILITY. 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 NORTHLAKE CORRECTIONAL FACILITY?

   Mailing address:

   NORTHLAKE CORRECTIONAL FACILITY
   1805 W 32nd St
   Baldwin, MI 49304
   Phone: (231) 745-9711

5. What are the visiting hours at NORTHLAKE CORRECTIONAL FACILITY?

   Visiting hours at NORTHLAKE CORRECTIONAL FACILITY 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) 745-9711 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 NORTHLAKE CORRECTIONAL FACILITY?

   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 NORTHLAKE CORRECTIONAL FACILITY for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at NORTHLAKE CORRECTIONAL FACILITY?

   You can send money to an inmate at NORTHLAKE CORRECTIONAL FACILITY 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 NORTHLAKE CORRECTIONAL FACILITY?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At NORTHLAKE CORRECTIONAL FACILITY, 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 NORTHLAKE CORRECTIONAL FACILITY?

   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 NORTHLAKE CORRECTIONAL FACILITY 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 NORTHLAKE CORRECTIONAL FACILITY, 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 North Lake Processing Center in Baldwin, Michigan, provides comprehensive support services designed to meet the diverse needs of individuals in federal immigration custody. The facility offers around-the-clock medical care through teams of healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, dentists, psychologists, and psychiatrists, with healthcare staffing levels that exceed many state correctional facilities. Access to off-site medical specialists, imaging facilities, and emergency services ensures comprehensive medical coverage when specialized care is needed.

Legal and family connections remain a priority through both in-person and virtual visitation programs, supported by general and legal library access to help individuals navigate their cases. The facility accommodates religious practices and dietary requirements, providing dietician-approved meals along with religious and specialty diet options. Recreational amenities offer opportunities for physical activity and social interaction, while religious services support spiritual well-being throughout individuals’ stay.

Educational opportunities may include basic literacy programs, English as a Second Language (ESL) classes, and access to educational materials through the facility’s library system. Mental health services typically encompass individual counseling, group therapy sessions, and crisis intervention support. The facility may also provide orientation programs to help new arrivals understand facility procedures and available resources, along with case management services to assist with legal proceedings and preparation for release or transfer.

Daily Life & Visitation

Residents at North Lake Processing Center in Baldwin, Michigan, typically begin each day with structured meal times featuring dietician-approved food that accommodates both general dietary needs and specialized religious requirements. The facility’s comprehensive support services ensure that individuals have consistent access to medical care around the clock, with healthcare staffing levels that exceed many state correctional facilities. Throughout the day, residents may participate in recreational activities and have opportunities to practice their religious beliefs in designated areas.

Family connections remain an important aspect of life at the facility through both in-person and virtual visitation programs. Residents can maintain contact with loved ones and legal representatives, while also having access to general and legal library resources for research and personal development. The facility’s location in Baldwin provides a structured environment where individuals can access various support services while their immigration cases are processed.

The daily routine typically includes scheduled times for meals, recreation, and various programming opportunities. Medical professionals, including physicians, nurses, dentists, and mental health specialists, are available to address healthcare needs, with additional access to off-site specialists and emergency services when required. The facility operates under independent accreditation standards, which helps ensure that daily operations meet established correctional and healthcare guidelines for immigration processing centers.