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 Orleans Parish Prison.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Orleans Parish Prison 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 Orleans Parish Prison.

Frequently asked questions about Orleans Parish Prison

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 Orleans Parish Prison.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Orleans Parish Prison?

   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 Orleans Parish Prison?

   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 Orleans Parish Prison. 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 Orleans Parish Prison. 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 Orleans Parish Prison?

   Mailing address:

   Orleans Parish Prison
   2800 Gravier St
   New Orleans, LA 70119
   Phone: (504) 202-9339

5. What are the visiting hours at Orleans Parish Prison?

   Visiting hours at Orleans Parish Prison 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 (504) 202-9339 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 Orleans Parish Prison?

   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 Orleans Parish Prison for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Orleans Parish Prison?

   You can send money to an inmate at Orleans Parish Prison 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 Orleans Parish Prison?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Orleans Parish Prison, 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 Orleans Parish Prison?

   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 Orleans Parish Prison 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 Orleans Parish Prison, 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

Rehabilitation-focused initiatives at Orleans Parish Prison typically center on developing practical skills and personal growth opportunities for residents. The facility's approach emphasizes building foundational abilities that may support successful community reintegration. These comprehensive offerings often include both structured learning environments and hands-on training experiences designed to address various aspects of personal development.

Educational initiatives form a cornerstone of the facility's programming, with literacy programs helping residents develop essential reading and writing skills. Education programs may deliver instruction across multiple academic levels, allowing participants to work toward completing their educational goals. Also, vocational training initiatives provide residents with marketable job skills in various trades and industries. These hands-on programs typically focus on practical skill development that may translate directly to employment opportunities upon release.

Support services complement the educational and vocational offerings through faith-based services that provide spiritual guidance and community connection. Grounds maintenance initiatives allow residents to contribute to facility operations while developing work experience and responsibility. Also, specialized programs often include conflict resolution training and communication skills development. These therapeutic initiatives may help residents build healthier interpersonal relationships and develop effective problem-solving strategies for managing challenging situations in their daily lives.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured schedules now govern every aspect of residential life, with consistent routines that residents can rely on throughout their stay. Wake-up calls typically occur in the early morning hours, followed by scheduled count times and meal service that regularly punctuate the day. This predictable framework delivers stability and helps residents adapt to their environment while maintaining personal accountability.

Housing units generally accommodate multiple residents in dormitory-style or cell configurations, with shared common areas for television viewing and social interaction. Personal property allowances typically include basic clothing items, hygiene products, and limited personal effects that residents may keep in their designated living spaces. Also, commissary services usually operate on scheduled days, allowing residents to purchase additional food items, toiletries, and writing supplies to supplement their basic needs.

Work assignments often include kitchen duties, facility maintenance, laundry services, and general housekeeping tasks that help residents develop job skills while contributing to daily operations. Recreation opportunities may deliver physical activity through basketball courts, walking areas, or exercise equipment, though availability typically depends on security levels and scheduling. However, family connections remain vital through regularly scheduled visitation periods and phone privileges that allow residents to maintain contact with loved ones and support systems outside the facility.