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 Ogemaw County Correctional Facility.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Ogemaw County 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 Ogemaw County Correctional Facility.

Frequently asked questions about Ogemaw County 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 Ogemaw County Correctional Facility.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Ogemaw County 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 Ogemaw County 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 Ogemaw County 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 Ogemaw County 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 Ogemaw County Correctional Facility?

   Mailing address:

   Ogemaw County Correctional Facility
   912 W Houghton Ave
   West Branch, MI 48661
   Phone: (989) 345-5908

   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 Ogemaw County Correctional Facility?

   Visiting hours at Ogemaw County 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 (989) 345-5908 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 Ogemaw County 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 Ogemaw County Correctional Facility for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Ogemaw County Correctional Facility?

   You can send money to an inmate at Ogemaw County 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 Ogemaw County Correctional Facility?

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

Personal transformation begins with access to meaningful opportunities that build skills, address underlying challenges, and prepare individuals for successful community reintegration. At Ogemaw County Corrections Facility, those incarcerated may find a structured environment that emphasizes security and safety while providing pathways for personal development. The facility's approach typically centers on creating a foundation where participants can engage in constructive activities that promote accountability and positive behavioral change.

Educational and vocational offerings often form the cornerstone of skill-building opportunities within the facility. Those incarcerated may access education programs designed to improve literacy, complete high school equivalency requirements, or develop foundational academic skills. Furthermore, vocational education opportunities typically include specialized training programs, with HVAC certification being among the technical skills training that may be available. These structured learning environments often provide hands-on experience that can translate directly into employment opportunities upon release.

Support services and therapeutic interventions may furnish additional layers of assistance for those working toward successful reentry. The facility typically offers anger management programs that help participants develop healthier coping strategies and conflict resolution skills. Furthermore, prisoner reentry initiatives often include comprehensive planning and resource connections to ease the transition back to community life. Commercial driving (CDL) training may be available as part of vocational preparation, while wellness programs typically address physical and mental health needs. These offerings often work together to create a comprehensive approach that addresses the multiple factors contributing to successful rehabilitation and community reintegration.

Daily Life & Visitation

Maintaining connections with family and community members forms a cornerstone of the experience for those incarcerated at Ogemaw County Corrections Facility. The facility currently operates on a structured daily schedule that continues to emphasize both personal responsibility and social interaction among residents. Wake-up typically occurs in the early morning hours, followed by personal hygiene routines and preparation for the day ahead.

Living accommodations generally consist of shared housing units that may include dormitory-style arrangements or smaller rooms, depending on the facility's current capacity and classification needs. Those incarcerated typically share common areas where social interactions naturally develop throughout the day. Meals are usually served in a central dining area at designated times, providing opportunities for residents to gather and maintain social connections. The dining arrangements often furnish a sense of community, as individuals may sit together and engage in conversation during these scheduled meal periods.

Furthermore, the facility generally offers various recreational activities and programming opportunities that help maintain mental and physical well-being. Exercise periods and recreational time typically allow residents to participate in group activities, sports, or individual fitness routines. Although security protocols are maintained, visitation policies usually permit family members and approved visitors to maintain regular contact with their loved ones. Communication options may include phone calls and written correspondence, helping those incarcerated stay connected to their support systems. Work assignments within the facility often provide structure and purpose, while educational or vocational programming may be available to help residents prepare for eventual reintegration into the community.