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 Saint Marys Correctional Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Saint Marys 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 Saint Marys Correctional Center.

Frequently asked questions about Saint Marys 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 Saint Marys Correctional Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Saint Marys 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 Saint Marys 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 Saint Marys 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 Saint Marys 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 Saint Marys Correctional Center?

   Mailing address:

   Saint Marys Correctional Center
   2880 N Pleasants Hwy
   St Marys, WV 26170
   Phone: (304) 684-5500

5. What are the visiting hours at Saint Marys Correctional Center?

   Visiting hours at Saint Marys 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 (304) 684-5500 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 Saint Marys 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 Saint Marys Correctional Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Saint Marys Correctional Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Saint Marys 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 Saint Marys Correctional Center?

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

With a focus on serving an aging offender population, Saint Marys Correctional Center and Jail has developed specialized programming to address the comprehensive needs of older inmates. The facility’s relatively flat campus design specifically accommodates those with mobility challenges, including wheelchair users, reflecting a commitment to accessibility in correctional care. This thoughtful approach to infrastructure supports the center’s ability to provide appropriate housing and services for inmates who may require additional medical attention or have limited mobility.

The facility typically offers educational programming that may include adult basic education, GED preparation, and literacy courses designed to help inmates develop essential academic skills. Vocational training opportunities often focus on practical skills that can support successful reintegration into the community upon release. Mental health and substance abuse counseling services are commonly available, addressing the underlying issues that may have contributed to criminal behavior and supporting long-term rehabilitation goals.

Medical and health services at Saint Marys likely include routine healthcare, chronic disease management, and specialized care for the aging population, which represents a significant portion of the facility’s 610-inmate capacity. The center may also provide religious services, recreational activities, and library services to support inmates’ overall well-being during incarceration. Family visitation programs and reentry preparation services typically help maintain community connections and prepare inmates for successful transition back into society.

Daily Life & Visitation

Located on a relatively flat campus three miles north of St. Marys, the Saint Marys Correctional Center and Jail houses approximately many individuals in a medium-security environment specifically designed to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. The facility’s accessible layout, featuring wheelchair-friendly pathways and specialized housing units for aging offenders, reflects the institution’s focus on meeting the diverse physical needs of its population while maintaining security protocols typical of West Virginia correctional facilities.

Inmates at Saint Marys typically follow structured daily schedules that may include work assignments, educational programming, and recreational activities suited to the facility’s medium-security classification. The institution often provides opportunities for skill development and rehabilitation programs, though specific offerings may vary based on staffing and resources. Meals are generally served at designated times in common dining areas, with inmates returning to their housing units during scheduled count times throughout the day.

Family connections remain an important aspect of life at the facility, with visitation and communication policies designed to maintain relationships while ensuring institutional security. Visitors typically must follow standard West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation guidelines, which may include scheduling visits in advance and adhering to dress codes and identification requirements. The facility’s location in Pleasants County, accessible via State Route 2, provides a relatively convenient setting for families traveling to maintain contact with their incarcerated loved ones.