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 Southwestern Illinois Corctnl.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Southwestern Illinois Corctnl 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 Southwestern Illinois Corctnl.

Frequently asked questions about Southwestern Illinois Corctnl

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 Southwestern Illinois Corctnl.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Southwestern Illinois Corctnl?

   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 Southwestern Illinois Corctnl?

   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 Southwestern Illinois Corctnl. 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 Southwestern Illinois Corctnl. 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 Southwestern Illinois Corctnl?

   Mailing address:

   Southwestern Illinois Corctnl
   950 N Kingshighway
   East St Louis, IL 62203
   Phone: (618) 394-2200

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Closed
   • Tuesday: Closed
   • Wednesday: Closed
   • Thursday: Closed
   • Friday: Closed
   • Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
   • Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Southwestern Illinois Corctnl?

   Visiting hours at Southwestern Illinois Corctnl 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 (618) 394-2200 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 Southwestern Illinois Corctnl?

   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 Southwestern Illinois Corctnl for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Southwestern Illinois Corctnl?

   You can send money to an inmate at Southwestern Illinois Corctnl 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 Southwestern Illinois Corctnl?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Southwestern Illinois Corctnl, 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 Southwestern Illinois Corctnl?

   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 Southwestern Illinois Corctnl 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 Southwestern Illinois Corctnl, 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 Illinois Department of Corrections has transitioned to ICSolutions technology services at Southwestern Illinois Correctional Center, providing individuals in custody with modern communication tools including video visitation and electronic messaging through CorrLinks. This technological infrastructure supports the facility's broader mission to protect the public while maintaining a safe and secure environment that may incorporate various rehabilitative programming designed to prepare individuals for successful reentry into their communities.

As a minimum-security facility housing adult males, Southwestern Illinois Correctional Center typically offers educational programming that may include adult basic education, GED preparation, and literacy courses to help individuals develop fundamental academic skills. The facility likely provides vocational training opportunities in areas such as maintenance, food service, or custodial work, which can provide valuable job skills for post-release employment. Counseling services often include substance abuse treatment programs, anger management classes, and mental health support to address underlying issues that may have contributed to criminal behavior.

The center's work camp component suggests a focus on developing practical work skills and responsibility through structured labor programs. Additional support services may include library access, recreational activities, and religious programming to support overall well-being during incarceration. With video visitation available seven days a week during multiple time slots, the facility recognizes the importance of maintaining family connections, which research indicates can be crucial for successful reintegration. These comprehensive services work together to create an environment focused on rehabilitation while ensuring public safety remains the primary priority.

Daily Life & Visitation

At Southwestern Illinois Correctional Center, residents maintain regular contact with family through video visitation sessions available seven days a week, with three time slots offered daily: morning sessions from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM, afternoon visits from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM, and evening connections from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM. Visitors must schedule these sessions in advance and are encouraged to log on 15 minutes before their scheduled time to ensure a smooth connection. Beyond video visits, residents can stay connected through ICS CorrLinks electronic messaging system, which allows for ongoing communication with approved contacts throughout the week.

The facility, which opened in August 1995 and currently houses approximately 507 residents, operates as a minimum-security institution for adult males. As the parent facility for Southwestern Illinois Work Camp, it typically offers various programming opportunities that may include educational classes, vocational training, and work assignments that help residents develop skills for successful reintegration. The structured environment often includes scheduled meal times, recreational periods, and program participation, all designed to maintain order while providing meaningful activities. Mail correspondence follows standard protocols, with business mail directed to the Kingshighway Street address and personal correspondence for residents sent to the designated P.O. Box in East St. Louis.

Living conditions at this minimum-security facility generally allow for more movement and programming flexibility compared to higher-security institutions. Residents may participate in various activities throughout the day, including library access, recreational time, and structured programs aimed at rehabilitation and skill development. The facility's mission emphasizes providing a safe and secure environment while working toward public safety through effective correctional programming and preparation for eventual community reintegration.