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 Greene.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at SCI Greene 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 Greene.

Frequently asked questions about SCI Greene

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 Greene.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to SCI Greene?

   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 Greene?

   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 Greene. 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 Greene. 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 Greene?

   Mailing address:

   SCI Greene
   175 Progress Dr
   Waynesburg, PA 15370
   Phone: (724) 852-2902

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:30 AM – 3:30 AM
   • Tuesday: Closed
   • Wednesday: Closed
   • Thursday: Closed
   • Friday: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM
   • Saturday: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM
   • Sunday: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at SCI Greene?

   Visiting hours at SCI Greene 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 (724) 852-2902 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 Greene?

   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 Greene for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at SCI Greene?

   You can send money to an inmate at SCI Greene 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 Greene?

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

   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 Greene 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 Greene, 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 Pennsylvania Correctional Industries (PCI) garment factory, SCI Greene provides vocational training and employment opportunities for approximately 65 individuals, who gain valuable work experience producing denim clothing, sweatshirts, jumpsuits, and staff uniforms for use throughout the state correctional system. This hands-on manufacturing program, supported by three staff members, teaches essential job skills while contributing to the facility's operations. The institution also operates a Community Work Program that allows select participants to complete projects for local non-profit organizations, fostering community connections and work readiness.

SCI Greene's comprehensive approach to rehabilitation includes specialized housing units designed to address diverse needs. The facility features a Residential Treatment Unit for individuals requiring intensive therapeutic support, along with a Diversionary Treatment Unit and Secure Residential Treatment Unit that may provide structured programming for those with substance abuse issues or other treatment needs. Unit K specifically houses individuals with mental health needs, while the Step-Down Unit typically assists those transitioning from higher security levels. These specialized environments may offer group counseling, individual therapy sessions, and targeted programming to address underlying issues contributing to criminal behavior.

The institution's Reentry Service Office plays a crucial role in preparing individuals for successful community reintegration by providing information and services designed to ease the transition after release. This office may coordinate with community resources, assist with housing and employment planning, and connect participants with support services. Additionally, SCI Greene likely offers educational programming that may include adult basic education, GED preparation, and vocational training opportunities beyond the garment factory, along with religious services, recreational activities, and library services typical of Pennsylvania correctional facilities.

Daily Life & Visitation

At SCI Greene, a maximum-security facility in Franklin Township, Pennsylvania, the structured environment revolves around the institution's 11 housing units spread across 44 acres within the secure perimeter. Inmates typically begin their days with early morning counts and meals, followed by work assignments that may include positions at the facility's garment factory operated by Pennsylvania Correctional Industries. This factory employs approximately 65 inmates who produce denim jeans, sweatshirts, jumpsuits, and other clothing items for use throughout the state correctional system. The facility also operates specialized housing units, including the Residential Treatment Unit for inmates with mental health needs and various security levels to accommodate different custody classifications.

The institution's daily operations often incorporate programming designed to support eventual reintegration into the community. Through the Community Work Program, selected inmates may participate in work crews that assist local non-profit organizations, providing valuable job skills and community connections. The facility's Reentry Service Office typically works with inmates approaching release to provide information and services that may ease their transition back to the community. Visitation and communication with family members generally follow standard Department of Corrections protocols, allowing inmates to maintain important relationships during their incarceration.

With approximately 670 full-time staff members supporting operations, SCI Greene maintains the security and programming necessary for a maximum-security environment while offering various treatment and educational opportunities. The facility's specialized units, including the Diversionary Treatment Unit and Step-Down Unit, often provide structured environments for inmates with specific needs or those working toward reduced security classifications. These programs, combined with work opportunities and reentry services, typically form the foundation of the structured daily routine that characterizes life at this Pennsylvania correctional institution.