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 Suwannee County Housing.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Suwannee County Housing 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 Suwannee County Housing.

Frequently asked questions about Suwannee County Housing

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 Suwannee County Housing.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Suwannee County Housing?

   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 Suwannee County Housing?

   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 Suwannee County Housing. 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 Suwannee County Housing. 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 Suwannee County Housing?

   Mailing address:

   Suwannee County Housing
   200 Ohio Ave S
   Live Oak, FL 32064
   Phone: (386) 364-3778

5. What are the visiting hours at Suwannee County Housing?

   Visiting hours at Suwannee County Housing 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 (386) 364-3778 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 Suwannee County Housing?

   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 Suwannee County Housing for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Suwannee County Housing?

   You can send money to an inmate at Suwannee County Housing 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 Suwannee County Housing?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Suwannee County Housing, 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 Suwannee County Housing?

   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 Suwannee County Housing 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 Suwannee County Housing, 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

A diverse array of development opportunities reflects the facility's commitment to addressing the varied needs of individuals during their incarceration. The comprehensive approach recognizes that meaningful change often requires multiple pathways for growth and skill-building. These opportunities typically focus on education, personal development, and preparation for successful community reintegration.

Educational opportunities form a cornerstone of the facility's programming structure. Individuals may access education programs designed to build foundational academic skills and knowledge. High school diploma programs provide pathways for those seeking to complete their secondary education, while special education services often ensure that individuals with learning differences receive appropriate support. These educational initiatives typically emphasize practical skills that can translate into employment opportunities upon release.

Moreover, therapeutic and support services address the underlying challenges that may have contributed to incarceration. Substance abuse treatment opportunities often include counseling and education components that help individuals develop coping strategies and recovery skills. Work release programs may provide structured opportunities for eligible individuals to maintain employment in the community while serving their sentence. These comprehensive support services typically work together to create a foundation for positive life changes and reduced recidivism.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of meal trays being distributed typically signals the beginning of another structured day for individuals housed at the Suwannee County Jail. Today's routine generally follows a consistent pattern that includes scheduled meal times, count procedures, and designated periods for various activities. Individuals usually wake to announcements over the facility's intercom system, with the day's schedule often beginning early in the morning and continuing through evening hours.

Living accommodations at the facility typically consist of shared housing units where individuals may be assigned to cells or dormitory-style areas depending on classification levels and available space. Moreover, each housing area generally includes common spaces where individuals can interact during designated times, along with basic amenities such as restroom facilities and areas for personal hygiene. Personal property is usually limited to approved items, and individuals often have access to commissary services where they can purchase additional necessities and approved food items with funds from their accounts.

The facility typically offers various structured programming schedules that may include educational opportunities, religious services, and recreational activities when available. Whereas recreation time often provides opportunities for physical exercise and social interaction, work assignments within the facility generally offer individuals a chance to maintain daily structure and potentially earn small wages. Family connections remain important, with visitation policies usually allowing scheduled visits from approved family members and friends, while communication options typically include monitored phone calls and correspondence through the mail system, helping individuals maintain important relationships during their time at the facility.