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 Satellite Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Satellite 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 Satellite Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Satellite Jail
   502 S Lierman Ave
   Urbana, IL 61802
   Phone: (217) 384-1243

   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 Satellite Jail?

   Visiting hours at Satellite 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 (217) 384-1243 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 Satellite 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 Satellite Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Satellite 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 Satellite Jail?

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

Personal development opportunities within Champaign County Jail center on providing those incarcerated with structured pathways toward positive change and skill-building. The facility's approach emphasizes creating a secure environment where individuals can focus on addressing underlying issues while developing practical abilities for successful community reintegration. These offerings typically operate within a framework that prioritizes safety and maintains institutional security while fostering personal growth.

Educational services may furnish basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and life skills training designed to address knowledge gaps and build foundational competencies. Those incarcerated often have access to vocational programs that provide hands-on experience in various trades and technical skills. Moreover, facility maintenance and janitorial services create structured work opportunities that teach responsibility, work ethics, and practical skills while contributing to the institution's daily operations. These programs typically emphasize both skill development and the importance of contributing positively to the facility community.

Therapeutic offerings often include mental health treatment services that address substance abuse issues, behavioral concerns, and emotional wellness needs. Support services may furnish individual counseling, group therapy sessions, and specialized programming tailored to address specific challenges faced by those incarcerated. The facility's mental health professionals typically work to create treatment plans that focus on developing coping strategies and addressing root causes of criminal behavior. These comprehensive support systems often emphasize building the tools necessary for maintaining stability and making positive choices upon release.

Daily Life & Visitation

Family connections and peer relationships often serve as vital anchors for those incarcerated within the walls of Champaign County Jail. At present, the facility actively maintains structured routines that furnish opportunities for meaningful social interaction throughout each day. Those incarcerated typically begin their mornings with scheduled counts and meal service, followed by various programming activities that encourage community building among residents.

Living accommodations generally consist of shared housing units where those incarcerated develop informal support networks with their peers. The facility typically provides dormitory-style or multi-occupancy cells that naturally foster daily interactions and mutual assistance among residents. Meals are usually served in common dining areas, creating regular opportunities for social connection and conversation. Moreover, recreational periods often include group activities, television viewing, and exercise opportunities that help maintain both physical health and social bonds within the facility environment.

Structured programming schedules may offer educational classes, substance abuse counseling, and work assignments that bring residents together for shared purposes. Visitation policies typically allow family members and approved visitors to maintain important outside connections through scheduled visits, while phone privileges generally enable regular communication with loved ones. Whereas some facilities restrict contact severely, Champaign County Jail usually permits commissary purchases that allow those incarcerated to share snacks and personal items, further strengthening community ties. These various touchpoints with family and fellow residents help create a supportive environment that recognizes the importance of human connection during incarceration.