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 Southern Correctional Institution.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Southern Correctional Institution 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 Southern Correctional Institution.

Frequently asked questions about Southern Correctional Institution

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 Southern Correctional Institution.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Southern Correctional Institution?

   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 Southern Correctional Institution?

   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 Southern Correctional Institution. 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 Southern Correctional Institution. 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 Southern Correctional Institution?

   Mailing address:

   Southern Correctional Institution
   272 Glen Rd
   Troy, NC 27371
   Phone: (910) 572-3784

5. What are the visiting hours at Southern Correctional Institution?

   Visiting hours at Southern Correctional Institution 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 (910) 572-3784 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 Southern Correctional Institution?

   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 Southern Correctional Institution for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Southern Correctional Institution?

   You can send money to an inmate at Southern Correctional Institution 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 Southern Correctional Institution?

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

   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 Southern Correctional Institution 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 Southern Correctional Institution, 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

Personal growth and skill development form the foundation of rehabilitation services at Southern CI. The facility typically emphasizes building practical abilities that inmates can apply both during incarceration and after release. These services often focus on addressing underlying issues while providing concrete tools for positive change.

Educational services may provide opportunities for inmates to advance their academic credentials and develop critical thinking skills. Basic literacy and GED preparation programs often help participants strengthen fundamental learning abilities. Also, civic education services typically cover topics like legal rights, community responsibilities, and citizenship skills. Vocational training services may offer hands-on instruction in trades and technical skills that can lead to employment opportunities upon release.

Support services often address specific challenges that inmates may face during their rehabilitation journey. Veteran services typically provide specialized resources for former military personnel, helping them navigate benefits and transition planning. Also, healthy relationships programming may focus on communication skills, conflict resolution, and building positive connections with family and community members. Substance abuse programs often include counseling, education, and recovery planning to help participants develop strategies for maintaining sobriety and making healthier life choices.

Daily Life & Visitation

The housing units at Southern CI feature a structured environment where inmates navigate dormitory-style living arrangements and shared common areas. Today, inmates consistently follow established routines that begin with early morning counts and progress through scheduled meals, work assignments, and recreational periods. The facility typically maintains orderly operations through regular security checks and supervised movement between different areas of the compound.

Living accommodations generally include shared sleeping quarters with basic furnishings and storage space for personal belongings. Inmates usually adapt to communal dining halls where meals provide structured social interaction times throughout the day. Also, the facility offers commissary services where inmates may purchase approved personal items and snacks to supplement their daily provisions. However, all personal property remains subject to regular inspections and facility guidelines.

Structured programming schedules typically provide inmates with work assignments in areas such as kitchen services, maintenance, or facility operations. Recreation opportunities generally include outdoor exercise periods, television viewing in common areas, and access to library materials. Also, visitation policies usually allow scheduled visits with family members and approved contacts, while telephone access and written correspondence help maintain important connections with the outside community. These various activities and programs provide inmates with ways to structure their time and maintain relationships during their incarceration.