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 Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital 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 Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital.

Frequently asked questions about Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital

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 Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital?

   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 Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital?

   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 Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital. 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 Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital. 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 Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital?

   Mailing address:

   Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital
   450 E Romie Ln
   Salinas, CA 93901
   Phone: (831) 757-4333

   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 Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital?

   Visiting hours at Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital 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 (831) 757-4333 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 Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital?

   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 Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital?

   You can send money to an inmate at Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital 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 Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital, 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 Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital?

   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 Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital 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 Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital, 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

Through its comprehensive self-help and volunteer programs, Salinas Valley State Prison focuses on providing incarcerated individuals with constructive outlets for personal growth and rehabilitation. The facility offers established recovery programs including Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA), both facilitated by volunteers who guide participants through 12-step recovery processes to address addiction and promote sober living. These programs are available in both English and Spanish to serve the diverse population. Additionally, the institution provides specialized support through its Veterans Group and Veterans Healing Veterans (VHV) program, where veteran volunteers and self-help sponsors assist formerly-served individuals with benefits navigation, PTSD support, and substance abuse treatment.

The facility's educational programming typically includes basic academic courses, GED preparation, and vocational training opportunities that may encompass trades such as automotive repair, construction, and food service. These educational initiatives often work alongside life skills programs that focus on job readiness, financial literacy, and reentry preparation. Mental health and counseling services are generally available to address various therapeutic needs, while religious and spiritual programs may provide additional support through chaplaincy services and faith-based groups.

SVSP's programming approach emphasizes helping participants develop non-violent coping mechanisms and communication skills, with the overarching goal of reducing recidivism rates among those who engage in these services. The institution continues to evaluate and expand its program offerings, recognizing that diverse programming options can better serve the varied needs of its population and support successful community reintegration upon release.

Daily Life & Visitation

At Salinas Valley State Prison in Soledad, California, incarcerated individuals typically begin their days with early morning counts and meal service, followed by work assignments or participation in the facility's various self-help programs. The institution emphasizes rehabilitation through its comprehensive programming, including Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous meetings facilitated by volunteers, with Spanish language groups available to serve the diverse population. Veterans at the facility may participate in specialized support groups like Veterans Healing Veterans, where veteran volunteers provide assistance with benefits, PTSD support, and substance abuse recovery.

Communication with family and friends occurs through the established mailing system, with correspondence addressed to P.O. Box 1050, Soledad, CA 93960-1050, requiring the inclusion of the incarcerated person's name and CDCR number along with their last known housing unit. Visitation provides crucial family connection opportunities, though specific visiting schedules and procedures typically follow CDCR guidelines for security level and housing assignments. The facility's location at 31625 Highway 101 allows for family visits, while the main phone line at (831) 678-5500 serves as the primary contact point for inquiries.

Throughout the day, individuals may engage in educational programs, work assignments, or recreational activities designed to promote personal growth and reduce recidivism. The institution's commitment to facilitating productive programming means that participants often have opportunities to develop coping mechanisms and express themselves constructively. Evening hours typically include additional program meetings, personal time for correspondence or reading, and preparation for the next day's activities, all within the structured environment necessary for institutional security and safety.