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 River City Correctional Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at River City Correctional Center 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 River City Correctional Center.

Frequently asked questions about River City Correctional Center

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 River City Correctional Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to River City Correctional Center?

   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 River City Correctional Center?

   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 River City Correctional Center. 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 River City Correctional Center. 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 River City Correctional Center?

   Mailing address:

   River City Correctional Center
   3220 Colerain Ave
   Cincinnati, OH 45225
   Phone: (513) 946-6800

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Saturday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Sunday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at River City Correctional Center?

   Visiting hours at River City Correctional Center 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 (513) 946-6800 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 River City Correctional Center?

   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 River City Correctional Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at River City Correctional Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at River City Correctional Center 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 River City Correctional Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At River City Correctional Center, 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 River City Correctional Center?

   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 River City Correctional Center 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 River City Correctional Center, 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

From foundational literacy skills to advanced vocational certifications, the comprehensive array of opportunities at River City Correctional Center reflects a commitment to addressing the diverse developmental needs of individuals in custody. This multifaceted approach recognizes that meaningful reintegration requires more than basic programming—it demands a thorough framework that encompasses educational advancement, practical skill development, and personal growth initiatives. The facility's philosophy centers on providing individuals with multiple pathways to build competencies that extend well beyond their period of incarceration.

Educational initiatives at the facility typically include adult basic education courses designed to help individuals earn their GED or improve fundamental academic skills. Civic education opportunities may offer structured learning about government processes, legal systems, and community responsibilities, helping participants develop a deeper understanding of their role as future community members. Furthermore, job training opportunities often encompass various trades and technical skills that align with regional employment demands, providing individuals with marketable competencies upon release.

The facility's support services framework typically includes recovery services that address substance abuse issues through counseling and therapeutic programming. Transitional planning opportunities may offer comprehensive preparation for reentry, including assistance with housing resources, employment placement, and community connections. These support mechanisms often work in conjunction with educational and vocational programming to create a holistic approach to individual development, recognizing that successful reintegration requires both practical skills and personal stability.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of breakfast preparation often signals the beginning of another structured day for individuals housed at River City Correctional Center. Today follows a consistent pattern that has become familiar to residents, with wake-up calls typically occurring in the early morning hours. The facility maintains a regimented schedule that generally includes meal times, work assignments, and programming activities throughout the day. Count procedures occur at regular intervals, ensuring accountability while allowing individuals to participate in various structured activities. Most residents find that adapting to this routine provides a sense of stability, although the initial adjustment period may present challenges for newcomers.

Furthermore, living accommodations at the facility typically consist of shared housing units where individuals are assigned based on various factors including security classification and program participation. Most housing areas include basic furnishings and personal storage space, allowing residents to maintain some personal belongings within established guidelines. The commissary system generally operates on a scheduled basis, enabling individuals to purchase approved items to supplement their daily needs. Although space may be limited, many residents work to personalize their living areas within the facility's regulations, creating a more comfortable environment during their stay.

The facility often offers various recreational and educational programs designed to provide structure and skill development opportunities. Work assignments may include food service, maintenance, or facility operations, giving individuals a chance to develop job skills while contributing to daily operations. Visitation policies typically allow for regular contact with family members and approved visitors, supporting important relationships during incarceration. Although specific scheduling varies, most individuals can access telephone services and correspondence options to maintain connections with their support systems. These programs and communication opportunities generally aim to help residents prepare for eventual reintegration while maintaining family bonds throughout their time at the facility.