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 SCI Forest State Penitentiary.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at SCI Forest State Penitentiary 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 SCI Forest State Penitentiary.

Frequently asked questions about SCI Forest State Penitentiary

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 SCI Forest State Penitentiary.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to SCI Forest State Penitentiary?

   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 SCI Forest State Penitentiary?

   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 SCI Forest State Penitentiary. 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 SCI Forest State Penitentiary. 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 SCI Forest State Penitentiary?

   Mailing address:

   SCI Forest State Penitentiary
   153 Woodland Dr
   Marienville, PA 16239
   Phone: (814) 621-2110

5. What are the visiting hours at SCI Forest State Penitentiary?

   Visiting hours at SCI Forest State Penitentiary 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 (814) 621-2110 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 SCI Forest State Penitentiary?

   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 SCI Forest State Penitentiary for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at SCI Forest State Penitentiary?

   You can send money to an inmate at SCI Forest State Penitentiary 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 SCI Forest State Penitentiary?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At SCI Forest State Penitentiary, 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 SCI Forest State Penitentiary?

   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 SCI Forest State Penitentiary 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 SCI Forest State Penitentiary, 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 Pennsylvania Correctional Industries Vehicle Restoration Plant at SCI Forest provides meaningful vocational training as inmates repair and maintain snow plows, rims, message boards, and other heavy equipment for state and county governments. This program currently employs 43 residents with potential expansion to 100 participants, offering valuable mechanical and automotive skills that translate directly to post-release employment opportunities. Additionally, the Community Work Program connects residents with local non-profit organizations through mowing and painting projects, while also supporting PennDOT’s Adopt-a-Highway litter cleanup initiatives.

SCI Forest’s Reentry Service Office plays a crucial role in preparing residents for successful community reintegration by working with individuals within 18 months of their minimum or release date. Reentry Parole Agents oversee these services and collaborate with other facility staff to develop comprehensive transition plans. The facility also operates a Special Needs Unit to address the comprehensive requirements of residents with specific medical, mental health, or security considerations.

Beyond these specialized programs, SCI Forest may offer additional educational opportunities such as adult basic education, GED preparation, and vocational training courses typical of Pennsylvania correctional facilities. Counseling services often include substance abuse treatment programs, mental health support, and life skills development courses. Religious services and recreational activities typically provide additional support for personal growth and rehabilitation, helping residents develop the tools necessary for successful reentry into their communities.

Daily Life & Visitation

SCI Forest houses inmates in both traditional cells and dormitory-style accommodations across its 11 housing units, which follow a distinctive wagon wheel design that enhances security monitoring. The facility’s Special Needs Unit provides specialized housing for inmates requiring additional medical or mental health support, while the general population typically follows structured daily schedules that include meals, work assignments, educational programming, and recreational periods.

Inmates at SCI Forest may participate in the Pennsylvania Correctional Industries Vehicle Restoration Plant, where up to many individuals can gain valuable work experience repairing snow plows, rims, message boards, and other heavy equipment for state and county governments. The facility also operates a Community Work Program that allows selected inmates to assist local non-profit organizations with mowing and painting projects, as well as participate in PennDOT’s Adopt-a-Highway litter cleanup initiatives. These programs typically provide inmates with opportunities to develop job skills while contributing positively to the surrounding Forest County community.

For inmates approaching release, SCI Forest’s Reentry Service Office becomes an important part of daily life during their final 18 months of incarceration. Reentry Parole Agents work closely with inmates to provide information and services designed to ease their transition back into the community. Family members can visit inmates and send money through established procedures, though specific visiting hours and policies may vary. The facility’s 684 full-time employees work to maintain security while supporting various programs across the 45-acre secure perimeter, creating a structured environment focused on both custody and rehabilitation.