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 Portage County Juvenile Detention Facility.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Portage County Juvenile Detention 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 Portage County Juvenile Detention Facility.

Frequently asked questions about Portage County Juvenile Detention 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 Portage County Juvenile Detention Facility.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Portage County Juvenile Detention 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 Portage County Juvenile Detention 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 Portage County Juvenile Detention 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 Portage County Juvenile Detention 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 Portage County Juvenile Detention Facility?

   Mailing address:

   Portage County Juvenile Detention Facility
   1500 Strongs Ave
   Stevens Point, WI 54481
   Phone: (715) 346-1259

   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 Portage County Juvenile Detention Facility?

   Visiting hours at Portage County Juvenile Detention 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 (715) 346-1259 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 Portage County Juvenile Detention 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 Portage County Juvenile Detention Facility for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Portage County Juvenile Detention Facility?

   You can send money to an inmate at Portage County Juvenile Detention 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 Portage County Juvenile Detention Facility?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Portage County Juvenile Detention 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 Portage County Juvenile Detention 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 Portage County Juvenile Detention 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 Portage County Juvenile Detention 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 Corrections Division at Portage County Jail operates with a comprehensive approach to inmate support, featuring dedicated mental health services through a part-time psychiatrist and full-time social worker from Human Services. Educational opportunities are prioritized through partnerships that provide High School Equivalency (HSED)/GED programming via Mid-State Technical College, while the juvenile facility benefits from a full-time teacher assigned by the Stevens Point School District. Medical care is delivered through contracted services with Southern Health Partners, ensuring both doctor and registered nurse coverage for inmates’ healthcare needs.

Beyond these core services, the facility benefits from various volunteer and community-based programs that address multiple aspects of rehabilitation. Religious programming is available to support inmates’ spiritual needs, while specialized services include drug and alcohol treatment programs and job coaching to help prepare individuals for successful reentry. The juvenile detention component features comprehensive programming such as grandparent mentoring, which provides additional support and guidance for young offenders.

The facility may also offer additional rehabilitative services typical of county correctional facilities, potentially including anger management classes, life skills training, and basic literacy programs. Work programs within the facility might provide inmates with opportunities to develop job skills and maintain productive routines during their incarceration. The comprehensive staffing structure, including corrections officers, corporals, and specialized supervisors, helps ensure that these various programs and services are effectively coordinated to support both security and rehabilitation goals throughout the facility.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Portage County Jail operates under the supervision of a dedicated corrections staff that includes 25 full-time corrections officers and 5 corporals, ensuring consistent oversight throughout each day. Inmates typically begin their day with meals prepared by Summit, the facility’s contracted food service vendor, which staffs the kitchen and handles meal preparation. The structured environment includes access to educational opportunities through a partnership that provides High School Equivalency (HSED)/GED classes on a part-time basis, allowing inmates to work toward educational goals during their incarceration.

Healthcare and support services form an integral part of the daily routine, with medical care provided through contracted professionals including a doctor and registered nurse. Mental health support is available through a part-time psychiatrist, while a full-time social worker assists inmates with various needs and concerns. The facility also offers several volunteer-based programs at no cost, including religious services, drug and alcohol treatment programs, and job coaching services, which may be incorporated into inmates’ weekly schedules depending on their individual circumstances and program availability.

Throughout their stay, inmates typically follow structured daily schedules that balance security requirements with opportunities for personal development and preparation for reintegration. The corrections staff, led by experienced supervisors including a Captain and Sergeant, maintains facility operations while ensuring inmates have access to necessary services and programs. Family members seeking information about visitation policies or inmate services can contact the Corrections Division directly, as the facility works to balance security needs with maintaining important family connections during incarceration.