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 Sussex Correctional Institution.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Sussex 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 Sussex Correctional Institution.

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

   Mailing address:

   Sussex Correctional Institution
   23203 Dupont Blvd
   Georgetown, DE 19947
   Phone: (302) 856-5280

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

   Visiting hours at Sussex 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 (302) 856-5280 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 Sussex 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 Sussex Correctional Institution for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Comprehensive support services form the foundation of rehabilitation efforts, with programs designed to address the diverse needs of the population. These initiatives typically focus on building essential life skills while fostering personal growth and community connections. The approach emphasizes practical preparation for successful reintegration into society.

Educational programs may supply basic literacy instruction alongside GED preparation courses for those seeking to complete their high school education. Civic education components often include lessons on government processes and community engagement. In addition to this, vocational training opportunities typically feature hands-on instruction in trades such as carpentry, where participants can develop marketable skills. These programs often include certification preparation that may enhance employment prospects upon release.

Therapeutic services provide crucial emotional and mental health support through structured group therapy sessions. These programs typically address various challenges while promoting healthy coping strategies and interpersonal skills. Community resource connections may supply information about housing assistance, employment services, and family reunification support. The therapeutic approach often includes preparation for maintaining family relationships and building positive community ties after incarceration.

Daily Life & Visitation

Systematic organization shapes every aspect of the experience for the population at Sussex Correctional Institution, with structured schedules that currently govern movement, activities, and daily interactions. The facility continues to operate through clearly defined routines that typically begin with early morning counts and progress through designated periods for meals, programming, work assignments, and recreation. Housing units generally maintain consistent protocols for wake-up times, lockdowns, and evening procedures that supply predictability within the institutional environment.

Living accommodations at the facility typically consist of housing units that may include dormitory-style arrangements or individual cells, depending on security classification and available space. The population generally receives three meals daily in designated dining areas, with specific time slots assigned to different housing units to manage movement and maintain order. In addition to this structured meal service, residents usually have access to commissary services where they can purchase approved personal items and food products using funds from their institutional accounts.

Work assignments supply important structure to daily life, with the population typically participating in facility maintenance, kitchen duties, laundry services, or other institutional operations. Recreation opportunities generally include access to outdoor yards, gymnasium facilities, and organized activities during designated periods. Despite this structured environment, the facility usually provides visitation opportunities for family members and approved visitors, along with telephone access and mail services that help maintain connections with loved ones outside the institution. Programming schedules often include educational classes, vocational training, and counseling services that continue to support rehabilitation goals throughout the population's time at the facility.