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 Mercer.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about SCI Mercer

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 Mercer.

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

   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 Mercer?

   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 Mercer. 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 Mercer. 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 Mercer?

   Mailing address:

   SCI Mercer
   801 Butler Pike
   Mercer, PA 16137
   Phone: (724) 662-1837

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM
   • Tuesday: Closed
   • Wednesday: Closed
   • Thursday: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM
   • 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 Mercer?

   Visiting hours at SCI Mercer 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) 662-1837 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 Mercer?

   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 Mercer for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

   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 Mercer 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 Mercer, 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 Diagnostic and Classification Center at SCI Camp Hill operates specialized units designed to address diverse inmate needs, including a Diversionary Treatment Unit (DTU), Mental Health Unit (MHU), and Residential Treatment Unit (RTU) that provide targeted therapeutic interventions. The facility’s Youthful Offender Program (YOP) specifically serves younger inmates, while the Special Observation and Assessment Unit (SOAU) offers intensive monitoring and evaluation services. These specialized programs work alongside academic education services that include GED preparation and Commonwealth Second Chance programs, helping residents build foundational skills for successful reintegration.

Reentry preparation receives significant emphasis through the facility’s Reentry Service Office, which serves inmates within 18 months of their release date. Reentry Parole Agents coordinate workshops covering essential life skills, budgeting, and digital literacy, while the computer lab supports resume writing and job search activities. The Community Work Program provides hands-on experience through landscaping projects that serve the surrounding community. Additional programming may include vocational training opportunities, substance abuse counseling, religious services, and recreational activities that support personal development and rehabilitation goals.

The facility’s comprehensive approach combines immediate needs assessment through its diagnostic and classification function with long-term rehabilitation planning. Mental health services, educational programming, and pre-release preparation work together to address the varied challenges inmates face. While serving as the central intake point for male offenders entering Pennsylvania’s correctional system, SCI Camp Hill maintains focus on preparing residents for eventual community reintegration through structured programming and support services.

Daily Life & Visitation

The State Correctional Institution at Camp Hill operates as Pennsylvania’s central diagnostic and classification center, where all male inmates entering the state prison system begin their incarceration journey. This comprehensive role means that residents experience a structured assessment period that may differ from typical prison routines, as staff conduct comprehensive evaluations to determine appropriate long-term placement and programming needs. The facility’s 20 housing units accommodate inmates across various security levels and specialized programs, including the diversionary treatment unit, mental health unit, and youthful offender program, creating distinct daily experiences depending on an individual’s classification and treatment needs.

Inmates typically follow structured daily schedules that may include educational programming through the facility’s GED and Commonwealth Second Chance programs, as well as participation in specialized workshops offered through the Reentry Service Office. Those within 18 months of release often engage with Reentry Parole Agents in life skills training, budgeting workshops, and digital literacy courses, utilizing the computer lab for resume writing and job searches. The Community Work Program provides opportunities for some inmates to participate in landscaping projects that serve the surrounding community, offering both skill development and a connection to the outside world.

Family connections remain important aspects of daily life, with visitation opportunities available according to the facility’s policies, though specific scheduling may vary based on an inmate’s housing unit and security classification. The facility’s role as a diagnostic center means that some residents may have shorter stays while awaiting transfer to their permanent placement, while others participate in longer-term specialized programs. Throughout their time at SCI Camp Hill, inmates may access various support services designed to address mental health needs and prepare them for eventual reintegration into their communities.