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 State Correctional Facility.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Southern State 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 Southern State Correctional Facility.

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

   Mailing address:

   Southern State Correctional Facility
   700 Charlestown Rd
   Springfield, VT 05156
   Phone: (802) 885-9800

5. What are the visiting hours at Southern State Correctional Facility?

   Visiting hours at Southern State 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 (802) 885-9800 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 State 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 Southern State Correctional Facility for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Southern State 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 Southern State Correctional Facility?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Southern State 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 Southern State 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 Southern State 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 Southern State 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

The breadth of developmental opportunities at Northern State Correctional Facility reflects a comprehensive approach to supporting individual growth and preparation for successful community reintegration. This multi-faceted framework typically encompasses educational advancement, vocational skill development, and therapeutic support services designed to address diverse needs and interests. The facility's programming philosophy centers on providing individuals with meaningful pathways to build essential life skills while addressing underlying challenges that may have contributed to their incarceration.

Educational opportunities often form the cornerstone of personal development, with adult basic education services helping individuals complete their high school equivalency or strengthen foundational academic skills. These education services may extend to post-secondary coursework and specialized training programs that align with current workforce demands. In addition to this, vocational programs typically provide hands-on training in various trades and technical fields, offering individuals the chance to develop marketable skills that can translate into employment opportunities upon release.

Therapeutic services and volunteer programs round out the comprehensive support structure available to participants. These therapeutic opportunities may include substance abuse counseling, mental health services, and behavioral intervention programs tailored to individual circumstances and treatment goals. Volunteer programs often provide additional avenues for personal growth and community connection, allowing individuals to contribute meaningfully while developing interpersonal skills and civic responsibility. This integrated approach to programming recognizes that successful reintegration requires addressing multiple aspects of an individual's development and well-being.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of footsteps echoing through corridors marks the beginning of another structured day, as individuals at Northern State Correctional Facility navigate a routine that consistently balances security requirements with opportunities for personal development. Today, like most days, begins with early morning counts and meal service, followed by work assignments or programming activities that offer structure and purpose. The facility typically operates on a schedule that includes designated times for meals, recreation, and various programs, though specific timing may vary based on housing unit assignments and individual circumstances.

Living accommodations generally consist of shared cells or dormitory-style housing units, where individuals maintain personal belongings within established guidelines. The facility usually provides basic furnishings and allows residents to purchase additional items through the commissary system. Meals are typically served in a central dining area, offering structured social interaction while maintaining security protocols. Despite this controlled environment, individuals often have opportunities to personalize their living spaces within permitted limits and may access recreational areas during designated periods.

In addition to this basic routine, the facility typically offers various programs designed to support rehabilitation and skill development, which may include educational classes, vocational training, and counseling services. Recreation opportunities usually encompass both indoor and outdoor activities, allowing individuals to maintain physical fitness and engage in structured leisure time. Family connections remain important through visitation programs and communication options such as phone calls and correspondence, though these services operate within security guidelines. Work assignments within the facility often provide individuals with job skills and daily purpose, ranging from kitchen duties to maintenance tasks that help maintain facility operations.