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 Shawangunk Correctional Facility.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Shawangunk Correctional Facility 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 Shawangunk Correctional Facility.

Frequently asked questions about Shawangunk Correctional Facility

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 Shawangunk Correctional Facility.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Shawangunk Correctional Facility?

   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 Shawangunk Correctional Facility?

   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 Shawangunk Correctional Facility. 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 Shawangunk Correctional Facility. 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 Shawangunk Correctional Facility?

   Mailing address:

   Shawangunk Correctional Facility
   200 Quick Rd
   Wallkill, NY 12589
   Phone: (845) 895-2081

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Shawangunk Correctional Facility?

   Visiting hours at Shawangunk Correctional Facility 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 (845) 895-2081 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 Shawangunk Correctional Facility?

   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 Shawangunk Correctional Facility for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Shawangunk Correctional Facility?

   You can send money to an inmate at Shawangunk Correctional Facility 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 Shawangunk Correctional Facility?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Shawangunk Correctional Facility, 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 Shawangunk Correctional Facility?

   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 Shawangunk Correctional Facility 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 Shawangunk Correctional Facility, 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

Located in Wallkill, New York, this maximum security facility for males emphasizes comprehensive rehabilitation through a diverse array of programs designed to address multiple aspects of reintegration. The facility provides alcohol and substance abuse treatment programs alongside anger management services, recognizing that addressing underlying behavioral issues is crucial for successful outcomes. Educational and vocational programs form a cornerstone of the facility’s approach, while family development initiatives help maintain and strengthen crucial relationships during incarceration.

Shawangunk Correctional Facility offers extensive support services including guidance and counseling programs, library and law library access, and specialized treatment for sex offenders. The facility typically provides religious services to accommodate diverse spiritual needs, while recreational programs may offer physical fitness opportunities and structured activities. Veterans services are available to address the comprehensive needs of formerly enlisted individuals, and trauma programs help participants process and heal from past experiences that may have contributed to their incarceration.

Transitional services programs focus on preparing individuals for eventual release, while temporary release programs may provide structured opportunities for community reintegration under supervision. The facility often incorporates volunteer services and programs that bring community members into the correctional environment, fostering connections that can support successful reentry. These comprehensive offerings reflect the facility’s commitment to addressing the varied needs of its population through evidence-based programming and therapeutic interventions.

Daily Life & Visitation

At Shawangunk Correctional Facility in Wallkill, New York, incarcerated individuals can maintain connections with their families through daily visitation opportunities from 8:30 AM to 2:15 PM, with visitors able to arrive as late as 1:45 PM. The facility typically allows up to six visits per week, with a seventh visit possible upon approval from the Watch Commander for families traveling long distances. Each visit may include up to three visitors plus one child, though space limitations in the visiting room can affect availability during busy periods.

The maximum security facility offers a structured environment where individuals may participate in various rehabilitative programs throughout the week. Educational and vocational training opportunities are often available during daytime hours, while evenings might include anger management sessions, substance abuse treatment programs, or religious services. The facility typically maintains library services where individuals can access both general reading materials and legal resources to support their cases or appeals.

Communication with the outside world extends beyond in-person visits, as individuals can typically send and receive mail through the facility’s postal system at P.O. Box 700. The structured daily routine often includes designated times for meals, recreation, and program participation, with weekends providing additional opportunities for family visits and recreational activities. Those in the Special Housing Unit operate under modified schedules, with one non-legal visit permitted within each seven-day period during regular visiting hours.