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 Ontario County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Ontario 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 Ontario County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Ontario County Jail
   3045 County Complex Dr
   Canandaigua, NY 14424
   Phone: (585) 396-1800

   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 Ontario County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Ontario 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 (585) 396-1800 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 Ontario 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 Ontario County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Through a comprehensive network of supportive services, the population at Ontario County Jail receives assistance designed to address both immediate needs and long-term reintegration goals. The facility's approach centers on providing meaningful opportunities that help individuals develop practical skills while addressing underlying challenges that may have contributed to their incarceration. These programs typically emphasize personal growth, family reconnection, and community preparation through structured interventions and skill-building activities.

Educational services form a cornerstone of the facility's offerings, providing the population with opportunities to advance their academic credentials and develop marketable job skills. Vocational programs may include small engine repair training and HVAC certification courses, which often focus on hands-on learning that translates directly to employment opportunities upon release. These educational initiatives typically serve dual purposes: building confidence through achievement while creating pathways to stable employment that supports successful community reintegration.

In addition to educational opportunities, therapeutic programs address the mental health and behavioral needs of the population through evidence-based interventions. Mental health support services often include cognitive behavioral therapy sessions that help individuals develop coping strategies and address thought patterns that may contribute to criminal behavior. The facility may also offer creative therapeutic programs such as painting and decorating activities, which provide constructive outlets for self-expression while building practical skills. These supportive services typically work together to create a foundation for positive change that extends beyond incarceration.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured schedules and clear organizational protocols shape every aspect of the experience for the population housed within Ontario County Jail. At present, residents follow a regimented daily routine that typically begins with early morning counts and continues through scheduled meals, programming, and evening lockdown procedures. Staff actively maintain order through consistent application of facility rules and procedures that govern movement between housing units, common areas, and program spaces.

The population generally resides in dormitory-style housing units or individual cells, depending on classification levels and available space. Living accommodations typically include basic furnishings such as beds, storage areas, and shared bathroom facilities. Meals are usually served at designated times in common dining areas or delivered to housing units, with the facility providing three meals daily that meet nutritional standards. Personal property is generally limited to approved items, and residents may access commissary services to purchase additional food items, hygiene products, and other approved goods.

In addition to this basic structure, the facility typically offers various programs and activities that supply meaningful structure to daily life. Work assignments may include kitchen duties, cleaning responsibilities, and facility maintenance tasks that help residents contribute to daily operations. Recreation and exercise opportunities often include scheduled time in common areas, outdoor recreation when available, and access to television or reading materials. Despite this structured environment, the population usually maintains contact with family members through scheduled visitation periods, telephone calls, and correspondence, which helps preserve important connections during their stay at the facility.