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 Prairie Du Chien Correctional Institution.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Prairie Du Chien Correctional Institution 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 Prairie Du Chien Correctional Institution.

Frequently asked questions about Prairie Du Chien Correctional Institution

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 Prairie Du Chien Correctional Institution.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Prairie Du Chien Correctional Institution?

   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 Prairie Du Chien Correctional Institution?

   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 Prairie Du Chien Correctional Institution. 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 Prairie Du Chien Correctional Institution. 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 Prairie Du Chien Correctional Institution?

   Mailing address:

   Prairie Du Chien Correctional Institution
   500 E Parrish St
   Prairie du Chien, WI 53821
   Phone: (608) 326-7828

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Prairie Du Chien Correctional Institution?

   Visiting hours at Prairie Du Chien Correctional Institution 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 (608) 326-7828 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 Prairie Du Chien Correctional Institution?

   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 Prairie Du Chien Correctional Institution for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Prairie Du Chien Correctional Institution?

   You can send money to an inmate at Prairie Du Chien Correctional Institution 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 Prairie Du Chien Correctional Institution?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Prairie Du Chien Correctional Institution, 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 Prairie Du Chien Correctional Institution?

   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 Prairie Du Chien Correctional Institution 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 Prairie Du Chien Correctional Institution, 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

A comprehensive network of developmental opportunities at Prairie du Chien Correctional Institution reflects the facility’s commitment to addressing multiple aspects of personal growth and rehabilitation. The institution typically recognizes that meaningful change requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses educational advancement, practical skill development, and personal transformation. This philosophy guides the facility’s approach to programming, where individuals may access various pathways designed to support their reintegration goals and personal development needs.

Educational services form a cornerstone of the facility’s offerings, providing individuals with opportunities to pursue academic advancement through various learning formats. These educational opportunities often include basic literacy programs, GED preparation, and post-secondary coursework that may help individuals develop critical thinking skills and expand their knowledge base. Also, vocational programs typically complement academic learning by offering hands-on training in practical trades and technical skills. These programs may focus on areas such as construction, manufacturing, or service industries, providing individuals with marketable skills that can support successful community reintegration.

Support services and therapeutic interventions round out the comprehensive programming approach at the facility. Cognitive interventions may help individuals develop better decision-making skills and address thinking patterns that contributed to their incarceration. Mentoring programs often connect individuals with guidance and support from peers or community volunteers who can provide encouragement and practical advice. Also, work opportunities such as janitorial services may offer individuals the chance to develop work habits, responsibility, and job skills while contributing to facility operations. These varied support mechanisms typically work together to create a structured environment where individuals can address personal challenges while building the foundation for positive life changes.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of morning announcements typically marks the beginning of each day for individuals housed at Prairie du Chien Correctional Institution, as the facility currently maintains structured schedules that continue to provide routine and predictability. Daily activities generally begin early with count procedures, followed by breakfast service and work assignments or programming activities. The facility typically offers various educational and vocational opportunities throughout the day, with individuals often participating in classes, job training, or facility maintenance work assignments.

Living accommodations at the institution generally consist of housing units designed to provide basic necessities while maintaining security protocols. Individuals typically share living spaces and have access to common areas for recreation and social interaction. Also, the facility usually provides three meals daily in designated dining areas, with menus that aim to meet nutritional requirements and accommodate various dietary needs. Personal property allowances may include approved clothing, hygiene items, and limited personal effects, while commissary services typically offer additional food items and personal care products for purchase.

However, daily life extends beyond basic routines to include recreational activities and family connections that offer structure and support. The facility may provide access to outdoor recreation areas, fitness equipment, and organized sports activities when weather and security conditions permit. Visitation opportunities typically allow individuals to maintain contact with family members and approved visitors, though specific scheduling and procedures generally follow established institutional guidelines. Also, communication options may include monitored phone calls and correspondence, helping individuals continue relationships with their support systems while serving their sentences.