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 San Joaquin County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about San Joaquin 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 San Joaquin County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   San Joaquin County Jail
   999 W Mathews Rd
   French Camp, CA 95231
   Phone: (209) 468-4384

5. What are the visiting hours at San Joaquin County Jail?

   Visiting hours at San Joaquin 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 (209) 468-4384 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 San Joaquin 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 San Joaquin County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at San Joaquin 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 San Joaquin County Jail?

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

The breadth of opportunities available to individuals reflects a comprehensive approach to personal development and successful community reintegration. This facility typically emphasizes skill-building across multiple areas, recognizing that meaningful change often requires addressing various aspects of an individual’s life. Through structured programming, participants may engage in activities designed to build both practical abilities and personal resilience.

Educational opportunities often include basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and computer skills training. These foundational programs may help individuals develop essential academic competencies needed for future employment or continued learning. Also available are vocational training initiatives that typically focus on marketable job skills. Participants may engage in hands-on learning experiences that could include construction trades, culinary arts, or specialized skills like upholstery work, providing practical expertise valued by employers.

Support services frequently encompass rehabilitation programs designed to address underlying issues that may have contributed to incarceration. Wellness programs often include stress management techniques and physical fitness activities that promote overall health. The facility may also offer trauma-informed care approaches, recognizing that many individuals benefit from therapeutic interventions that address past experiences. These comprehensive support opportunities typically work together to help participants develop coping strategies and life skills essential for successful reentry into their communities.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of morning announcements typically marks the beginning of each day for individuals housed within the facility. At present, the daily routine actively revolves around structured meal times, count procedures, and scheduled programming activities. Wake-up generally occurs in the early morning hours, followed by breakfast service and the established of several daily counts where individuals must be accounted for in their assigned housing areas.

Living accommodations vary throughout the facility, with individuals typically housed in dormitory-style units or individual cells depending on their classification level and available space. Each housing unit generally includes basic amenities such as restroom facilities, common areas, and space for personal belongings within approved limits. Also, individuals may access commissary services periodically to purchase approved items like snacks, hygiene products, and writing materials, though availability often depends on account balances and facility schedules.

Programming opportunities typically offer structure through various activities including educational classes, vocational training, and recreational periods. Work assignments may include kitchen duties, facility maintenance, or laundry services, providing individuals with daily responsibilities and potential skill development. However, family connections remain important through scheduled visitation periods and phone access, though these services generally operate within specific time frames and may require advance scheduling. Recreation time usually includes access to outdoor areas when weather permits, along with indoor activities such as television viewing, reading materials from the facility library, and organized games or sports activities.