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 Silverdale Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Silverdale Detention Center 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 Silverdale Detention Center.

Frequently asked questions about Silverdale Detention Center

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 Silverdale Detention Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Silverdale Detention Center?

   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 Silverdale Detention Center?

   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 Silverdale Detention Center. 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 Silverdale Detention Center. 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 Silverdale Detention Center?

   Mailing address:

   Silverdale Detention Center
   7609 Standifer Gap Rd
   Chattanooga, TN 37421
   Phone: (423) 209-7050

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Open 24 hours
   • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
   • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
   • Thursday: Open 24 hours
   • Friday: Open 24 hours
   • Saturday: Open 24 hours
   • Sunday: Open 24 hours

5. What are the visiting hours at Silverdale Detention Center?

   Visiting hours at Silverdale Detention Center 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 (423) 209-7050 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 Silverdale Detention Center?

   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 Silverdale Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Silverdale Detention Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Silverdale Detention Center 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 Silverdale Detention Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Silverdale Detention Center, 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 Silverdale Detention Center?

   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 Silverdale Detention Center 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 Silverdale Detention Center, 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

Growth and development opportunities at Silverdale Corrections Facility typically center around providing those incarcerated with structured pathways to build essential life skills and prepare for successful community reintegration. The facility's approach emphasizes creating a secure environment where participants can focus on personal transformation through education, vocational training, and therapeutic support services. These offerings may furnish individuals with the tools needed to address underlying challenges while developing practical skills that enhance their prospects for employment and stable relationships upon release.

Educational services form a cornerstone of the facility's development-focused approach, with GED preparation programs helping those incarcerated complete their high school equivalency requirements. These academic offerings often include basic literacy and numeracy instruction tailored to individual learning needs. In addition to this, vocational programs may provide hands-on training in practical trades such as plumbing, giving participants marketable skills that can translate directly into employment opportunities. The structured learning environment typically allows individuals to progress at their own pace while building confidence in their abilities.

Support services complement the educational and vocational offerings through faith-based programs that may help participants explore personal values and develop coping strategies. Healthy relationships programming often focuses on communication skills and conflict resolution techniques that can improve family connections and social interactions. Physical fitness opportunities typically provide structured exercise programs that promote both physical health and mental well-being, contributing to overall personal development. These comprehensive support services work together to address the multiple factors that may contribute to successful reentry into the community.

Daily Life & Visitation

Family connections and community bonds remain central to the experience of those incarcerated at Silverdale Corrections Facility. Residents now follow structured daily schedules that regularly include opportunities for social interaction and maintaining relationships with loved ones outside the facility walls. The day typically begins early with count procedures, followed by meal service and work assignments that furnish both purpose and social connection among residents.

Living accommodations generally consist of dormitory-style housing units where those incarcerated share common areas and develop supportive relationships with fellow residents. Meals are typically served in communal dining areas, providing natural opportunities for conversation and community building. In addition to this structured environment, the facility usually offers recreational activities and exercise periods that allow residents to participate in group sports, fitness programs, and social gatherings that help maintain physical and mental well-being.

Programming schedules typically include educational classes, vocational training, and counseling sessions that bring residents together in smaller group settings. Those incarcerated may often access telephone services and video visitation systems to maintain regular contact with family members and friends. Despite this controlled environment, commissary services generally allow residents to purchase personal items and share snacks or supplies with others, fostering a sense of community support. Work assignments within the facility often create opportunities for teamwork and skill development while contributing to the daily operations that benefit the entire residential population.