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 TDCJ Garza West Unit.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at TDCJ Garza West Unit 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 TDCJ Garza West Unit.

Frequently asked questions about TDCJ Garza West Unit

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 TDCJ Garza West Unit.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to TDCJ Garza West Unit?

   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 TDCJ Garza West Unit?

   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 TDCJ Garza West Unit. 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 TDCJ Garza West Unit. 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 TDCJ Garza West Unit?

   Mailing address:

   TDCJ Garza West Unit
   4250 TX-202
   Beeville, TX 78102
   Phone: (361) 358-9890

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at TDCJ Garza West Unit?

   Visiting hours at TDCJ Garza West Unit 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 (361) 358-9890 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 TDCJ Garza West Unit?

   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 TDCJ Garza West Unit for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at TDCJ Garza West Unit?

   You can send money to an inmate at TDCJ Garza West Unit 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 TDCJ Garza West Unit?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At TDCJ Garza West Unit, 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 TDCJ Garza West Unit?

   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 TDCJ Garza West Unit 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 TDCJ Garza West Unit, 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 begins when those incarcerated gain access to meaningful opportunities that build skills and prepare them for successful reintegration. The facility typically focuses on creating a structured environment where participants can develop both practical abilities and personal responsibility through various educational and vocational pathways.

Educational and vocational offerings often include comprehensive vocational training programs designed to teach marketable skills. These hands-on learning experiences may furnish participants with certifications in various trades and technical fields. Work programs provide additional opportunities for those incarcerated to gain real-world experience while contributing to facility operations and developing a strong work ethic.

In addition to these skill-building opportunities, support services typically encompass faith-based initiatives that address spiritual growth and personal reflection. Music programs may offer creative outlets for self-expression and emotional development. The facility often includes transitional planning services to help participants prepare for release, along with housing assistance guidance. Food service operations provide practical training while supporting daily facility functions, creating a comprehensive approach to personal development and preparation for community reentry.

Daily Life & Visitation

Building connections with family members remains a central focus for those incarcerated at this facility. At present, residents actively participate in structured daily routines that begin with morning counts and meal service. The schedule typically includes assigned work details, educational programming, and recreational periods that furnish stability throughout each day.

Housing units generally accommodate multiple residents in dormitory-style arrangements or smaller shared cells, depending on classification levels. Those incarcerated usually have access to common areas where social interactions occur during designated periods. Meals are typically served in centralized dining halls at scheduled times, providing opportunities for community interaction among residents from different housing areas.

In addition to this structured environment, the facility may offer various recreational activities including outdoor exercise periods, television viewing, and library access. Visitation policies generally allow family members to maintain regular contact through scheduled visits, while phone privileges and correspondence help preserve outside relationships. Work assignments often include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, and facility operations that provide both structure and potential job skills. Despite this, programming schedules typically vary based on individual needs and security classifications, with educational and counseling services often available to support rehabilitation goals.