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 NYSDOC Eastern Correctional Facility.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at NYSDOC Eastern 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 NYSDOC Eastern Correctional Facility.

Frequently asked questions about NYSDOC Eastern 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 NYSDOC Eastern Correctional Facility.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to NYSDOC Eastern 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 NYSDOC Eastern 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 NYSDOC Eastern 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 NYSDOC Eastern 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 NYSDOC Eastern Correctional Facility?

   Mailing address:

   NYSDOC Eastern Correctional Facility
   30 Institution Rd
   Napanoch, NY 12458
   Phone: (845) 647-7400

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Open 24 hours
   • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
   • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
   • Thursday: Open 24 hours
   • Friday: Open 24 hours
   • Saturday: Open 24 hours
   • Sunday: Open 24 hours

5. What are the visiting hours at NYSDOC Eastern Correctional Facility?

   Visiting hours at NYSDOC Eastern 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 (845) 647-7400 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 NYSDOC Eastern 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 NYSDOC Eastern Correctional Facility for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at NYSDOC Eastern Correctional Facility?

   You can send money to an inmate at NYSDOC Eastern 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 NYSDOC Eastern Correctional Facility?

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

Educational and vocational programs form a cornerstone of rehabilitation efforts at Eastern Correctional Facility, alongside comprehensive substance abuse treatment and anger management services. The facility provides educational opportunities that may include adult basic education, GED preparation, and college-level coursework to help incarcerated individuals develop essential academic skills. Vocational training programs typically offer instruction in various trades and technical skills, preparing participants for employment opportunities upon release. These programs often work in conjunction with the facility’s guidance and counseling services, which provide individualized support to help residents address personal challenges and develop life skills.

The facility’s treatment and support services encompass specialized programs designed to address diverse needs within the population. Alcohol and substance abuse treatment programs utilize evidence-based approaches to help individuals overcome addiction issues, while trauma programs address underlying psychological concerns that may have contributed to criminal behavior. Family development programs work to strengthen relationships and prepare individuals for successful reintegration with their loved ones. Additionally, the facility typically provides sex offender treatment programs for qualifying participants, religious services to support spiritual growth, and veterans services for those who have served in the military.

Library and law library services ensure residents have access to educational resources and legal materials necessary for self-advocacy and continued learning. Recreational programs may include physical fitness activities, sports leagues, and hobby groups that promote physical and mental well-being. The facility’s transitional services programs focus on release preparation, potentially including job placement assistance, housing support, and community resource connections. Volunteer services and programs often supplement these offerings by bringing community members into the facility to provide additional educational, spiritual, and mentoring opportunities that bridge the gap between incarceration and successful community reentry.

Daily Life & Visitation

Behind the walls of this maximum security facility in Napanoch, New York, incarcerated individuals follow structured routines designed around rehabilitation and security protocols. The facility operates under the supervision of Superintendent Michael J. Ritter, serving male inmates from Ulster County and surrounding areas. With visitation currently limited to weekends dedicated, families can visit between 9:00AM and 3:00PM on Saturdays and Sundays, though arrival must occur by 2:30PM to ensure processing time. Weekend visits are organized by the last digit of each person’s Department Identification Number (DIN), helping manage the flow of up to four visitors per individual during their single daily visit allowance.

The structured environment typically includes early morning wake-up calls, followed by meals served at designated times in housing units or common dining areas. Educational and vocational programs may occupy morning and afternoon hours, while recreational activities often take place during specified periods. The facility offers various rehabilitative programs including substance abuse treatment, anger management, educational opportunities, and religious services, though participation may vary based on security level and individual circumstances. Library access, including law library services, provides opportunities for research and personal development during designated hours.

For those in the Special Housing Unit, routines are more restrictive, with visitation limited to Monday through Friday from 9:00AM to 3:00PM, and weekends from 9:00AM to 2:30PM. These individuals receive one non-legal visit per seven-day period, measured from Monday to Sunday. Throughout the facility, evening hours typically involve return to housing units, with lights-out occurring at scheduled times. Communication with family members outside of visitation may include monitored phone calls and correspondence, subject to facility security policies and individual privilege levels.