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 Somerset State Correctional.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Somerset State Correctional 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 Somerset State Correctional.

Frequently asked questions about Somerset State Correctional

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 Somerset State Correctional.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Somerset State Correctional?

   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 Somerset State Correctional?

   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 Somerset State Correctional. 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 Somerset State Correctional. 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 Somerset State Correctional?

   Mailing address:

   Somerset State Correctional
   1590 Walters Mill Rd
   Somerset, PA 15510
   Phone: (814) 443-8100

5. What are the visiting hours at Somerset State Correctional?

   Visiting hours at Somerset State Correctional 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 (814) 443-8100 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 Somerset State Correctional?

   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 Somerset State Correctional for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Somerset State Correctional?

   You can send money to an inmate at Somerset State Correctional 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 Somerset State Correctional?

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

   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 Somerset State Correctional 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 Somerset State Correctional, 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 Reentry Service Office at SCI Somerset plays a central role in preparing inmates for successful community reintegration, providing specialized services to individuals within 18 months of their minimum or release date. Reentry Parole Agents oversee these offices and collaborate with facility staff to facilitate various workshops designed to address the challenges of transitioning back into society. The facility's Pennsylvania Correctional Industries laundry shop provides meaningful work experience for 99 inmates, offering valuable job skills and work habits that may prove beneficial upon release. Additionally, the Community Work Program enables inmates to contribute to the local community through activities such as mowing, painting, general cleanup, event setup, and litter removal, fostering a sense of civic responsibility while developing practical skills.

SCI Somerset's educational and activities complex typically houses various programming opportunities that may include adult basic education, GED preparation, vocational training, and life skills development. The facility often provides counseling services that may address substance abuse, anger management, and other behavioral issues that contribute to criminal behavior. Mental health services are supported by the facility's psychiatric observation cells and medical infrastructure, which may include individual and group therapy sessions. Religious and spiritual programs are commonly available, along with recreational activities that promote physical fitness and constructive use of leisure time. These comprehensive services work together to address the diverse needs of the inmate population and support rehabilitation goals throughout their incarceration.

Daily Life & Visitation

Within the 63 acres enclosed by SCI Somerset's double 14-foot security fence, approximately 1,280 individuals navigate their daily routines across ten housing units of varying custody levels. The facility's L-2 through L-5 housing units accommodate different security classifications, with inmates typically beginning their days with early morning counts and meal service from the central dietary complex. Those participating in the Pennsylvania Correctional Industries laundry operation—which employs 99 inmates—often start work shifts that provide both job training and a sense of purpose within the structured environment.

Educational and rehabilitative activities form a cornerstone of daily life, with inmates accessing programs through the education/activities complex. The facility's Community Work Program offers select individuals opportunities to contribute to local community projects, including maintenance work, event setup, and general cleanup services in Somerset County. For those nearing release, the Reentry Service Office becomes increasingly important, providing workshops and transition planning for inmates within 18 months of their minimum or release dates. These reentry services typically include employment preparation, housing assistance planning, and life skills development to support successful community reintegration.

Family connections remain vital to daily life at SCI Somerset, with visitation opportunities allowing inmates to maintain relationships with loved ones. The facility also provides money transfer services, enabling families to support their incarcerated relatives with commissary funds. Medical needs are addressed through the facility's twelve-bed infirmary, while those requiring specialized care may access psychiatric observation cells or isolation units as needed. The institution's maintenance and industries complex supports both facility operations and inmate work assignments, creating a structured environment where daily routines balance security requirements with rehabilitation and family connection opportunities.