SCI Forest, PA
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Guides for This Facility

How to Contact an Inmate at SCI Forest, PA (PA)
Reaching someone at SCI Forest is usually straightforward once you confirm where they are and what communication options are available. Start by verifying the person's status, then check the facility's current rules for phone, mail, and visits.
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Physically Present vs. Total Population at SCI Forest: Why the report shows 2,230 present but 2,246 assigned
Looking at the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections monthly population report and confused by the numbers? You're not alone. SCI Forest often shows fewer people "physically present" than the "total institution population" — that's because the total includes people who were temporarily away on the report date.
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How to Read SCI Forest's Population Numbers: Occupancy, Physically Present, Hospital & Temporary Absences
The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections monthly population report uses a few different counts that can look contradictory at first glance. Here's how to read SCI Forest's numbers from the December 31, 2025 report, and what each line actually measures.
Read GuideAt a Glance
Visitation
- Pennsylvania DOC facilities offer both in‑person and video visits scheduled through the PA Inmate Visitation System (IVS).
- An incarcerated person must add you to their authorized visitors list before you can schedule visits.
- Video visits require joining via the IVS link close to your scheduled time because sessions are scheduled back‑to‑back.
Communication
- Video visits, phone calls, secure messages, and tablet services are commonly offered through third-party vendors and are regularly monitored.
- You normally must create a visitor account with the facility’s approved vendor and complete identity verification, which may include uploading a government photo ID.
- Facility staff control approvals and scheduling even after a vendor account is set up.
Based on official sources and community feedback. Learn how we verify
Topic Overviews
Visitation
SCI Forest offers both in-person and video visits through Pennsylvania DOC's PA Inmate Visitation System (IVS), which requires a Keystone login for scheduling and identity verification. Visitation is a privilege. Availability, rules, and visitor list eligibility can differ by housing unit and custody status. To get started, the incarcerated person needs to authorize you as a visitor first. Then you create an IVS account and complete Keystone authentication. Adults need their own accounts, while minors are added under a parent or guardian. For video visits, use the IVS link and join shortly before your scheduled time. Sessions run back-to-back, so late arrivals risk missing their slot entirely. Bring a current government photo ID showing your date of birth, and make sure the address you provide matches what's on your ID.
Communication
Remote communication at SCI Forest includes video visits, phone calls, secure messaging, and tablet-style services through third-party vendors. These services are generally monitored. To get started, create a visitor account with the facility's approved vendor, complete identity verification, and link your account to the person in custody through the vendor's portal or app. Setup typically involves uploading a government photo ID, requesting a connection, and waiting for facility staff to approve it before visits or messaging can begin. Even after your vendor account is ready, the facility controls final approval and available time slots. Most services require prepayment or credits, and payment methods and refund policies vary by vendor.
Read full guideCommon Questions
How do I schedule a visit with an inmate?
First, ask the incarcerated person to add you to their authorized visitors list. Then create an IVS account and authenticate with Keystone; adults need their own accounts, and minors are added under a parent or guardian.
VisitationCan I do video visits and what should I know?
Yes. Pennsylvania DOC supports video visits scheduled through IVS. Join using the IVS link shortly before your start time. Sessions run back-to-back, so arriving late can cost you your slot.
VisitationWhat ID and information do I need to bring for a visit?
Bring a current government-issued photo ID that shows your date of birth. When scheduling, make sure the address you provide matches the address on your ID.
VisitationHow do I set up an account to contact an inmate at SCI Forest, PA?
Start by creating a visitor account with the facility's approved vendor and completing identity verification. This may include uploading a government photo ID and a selfie. After you request to connect with the person in custody, facility staff must approve the connection before visits or messaging are allowed.
CommunicationDo phone calls and video visits cost money?
Usually, yes. Most vendors require prepayment or credits for calls, video sessions, or messaging. Accepted payment methods and refund policies vary, so review the vendor's terms before adding funds.
CommunicationWho decides if a remote visit or message is approved?
Facility staff have the final say on approving visitor connections and which time slots are available. The vendor processes your request but doesn't control approvals or scheduling.
CommunicationMore Guides
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Did You Know?
It uses the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections monthly population report dated December 31, 2025.
This guide is based on feedback from 171 families and official facility documentation. Learn how we verify