How to send messages, photos, and packages
Shafter Community Correctional is part of CDCR's telecom switch from ViaPath to Securus. Once the transition completes, you'll need a Securus account. According to CDCR's cost comparison, Securus video calls run $0.10 per minute versus ViaPath's $0.16, and Securus includes 30 free video minutes per month (ViaPath offered 15 minutes every two weeks). To prepare, set up a Securus account and use AdvanceConnect and Video Connect to schedule and join video sessions. The Securus app supports remote participation. During the changeover, incarcerated individuals turn in ViaPath tablets and receive new Securus tablets. Photos, e-messages, and media purchased through ViaPath won't transfer. You can request refunds for unused ViaPath balances through ViaPath's call center; incarcerated individuals' balances are refunded to trust accounts automatically. Before connecting, confirm which platform Shafter is currently using.
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
CDCR’s comparison shows Securus video calls at $0.10 per minute, compared with ViaPath at $0.16 per minute. The rate you’ll actually pay depends on which vendor Shafter is currently using and whether the transition is complete.
No—photos, e-messages, and other media purchased through ViaPath can’t be moved to Securus tablets. If you have unused ViaPath funds, you can request a refund through ViaPath’s call center.
Once Shafter transitions, set up a Securus account along with AdvanceConnect and Video Connect to receive scheduled video sessions. Before adding funds or joining a session, confirm whether Shafter is currently using ViaPath or Securus.
No. Quarterly packages must be sold and shipped by CDCR-approved private vendors—not sent directly by family members. For vendor approval questions, contact Lt. Victor Espinoza at Victor.Espinoza@cdcr.ca.gov. CDCR disclaims affiliation or liability for approved independent vendors.
Incoming mail is inspected and screened for contraband. Legal mail is handled specially and is not read during contraband checks to protect confidentiality.
Include the inmate's full booked name and identifier (booking number, X-reference, or PFN) on the envelope, along with your printed return name and address. Follow facility rules for money orders and content limits, including photo restrictions. Avoid decorative or hard-to-inspect items.
Once you're approved to visit at Shafter, you have two options: schedule through VPASS up to a week ahead, or show up as a walk-in. Walk-ins are first-come, first-served, but VPASS appointments get processed first—so booking ahead can save you a lot of waiting.
Got questions about visiting at Shafter MCCF? Start with the main line: 661-746-8900. The two most helpful extensions are the Visiting Facility Supervisor / Watch Commander at ext. 5114 and the Visiting Facility Officer (Senior Corrections Officer) at ext. 5139 (also listed as /28). Calling the right extension saves time—especially when you're confirming a last-minute detail before heading out.
