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 Ray County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Ray 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 Ray County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Ray County Jail
   200 W 9th St
   Henrietta, MO 64036
   Phone: (816) 290-5631

5. What are the visiting hours at Ray County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Ray 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 (816) 290-5631 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 Ray 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 Ray County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Educational advancement serves as the cornerstone of rehabilitative initiatives at Ray County Jail, where residents typically engage in comprehensive learning opportunities designed to address both academic deficiencies and civic responsibilities. The facility’s approach emphasizes skill-building through structured curricula that may deliver foundational literacy instruction alongside more advanced educational content. Civic education components often include courses on legal responsibilities, community engagement, and personal accountability, creating a framework for successful reintegration into society.

Vocational training initiatives complement academic programming by providing residents with marketable skills that enhance employment prospects upon release. These hands-on programs typically focus on trades and technical skills that align with regional employment opportunities, allowing participants to develop competencies in high-demand fields. Additionally, educational initiatives may deliver GED preparation services and continuing education opportunities, ensuring that residents can pursue various pathways to academic achievement based on their individual needs and goals.

Therapeutic interventions address underlying issues that often contribute to criminal behavior, with substance abuse treatment programs forming a critical component of the facility’s rehabilitative approach. Sex offender treatment initiatives may deliver specialized counseling and behavioral modification strategies designed to reduce recidivism risk. Additionally, family reunification services work to strengthen relationships between residents and their loved ones through structured communication programs and counseling sessions. Prison industries initiatives often provide residents with work experience and job training while contributing to facility operations, creating a bridge between incarceration and eventual workforce participation.

Daily Life & Visitation

The rhythmic pattern of wake-up calls, meal times, and structured activities delivers a predictable framework that many residents find stabilizing during their time in custody. At present, the daily schedule at Ray County Jail actively revolves around consistent routines that begin early in the morning and continue through evening hours, with residents typically following established protocols for meals, programming, and personal time. This structured approach generally helps individuals adapt to the facility environment while maintaining order throughout the housing units.

Living accommodations typically consist of shared housing units where residents may be assigned based on various factors including security classification and available space. The facility generally provides basic furnishings and personal items, while residents often have opportunities to purchase additional comfort items through the commissary system. Meals are usually served at designated times in common dining areas or delivered to housing units, depending on the facility’s current operational procedures and security requirements. Additionally, residents typically have access to recreational activities and exercise opportunities during scheduled periods, which may include outdoor recreation time when weather and facility conditions permit.

While maintaining security protocols, the facility generally offers various work assignments that allow residents to contribute to daily operations while developing routine responsibilities. Programming schedules may include educational opportunities, counseling sessions, and other structured activities designed to support personal development. Family connections remain important through visitation programs and communication options, which typically include scheduled visits and phone privileges according to established guidelines. Additionally, residents usually have access to legal resources and may participate in religious services or other voluntary programs that help maintain community connections during their stay.