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 USP Canaan.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at USP Canaan 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 USP Canaan.

Frequently asked questions about USP Canaan

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 USP Canaan.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to USP Canaan?

   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 USP Canaan?

   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 USP Canaan. 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 USP Canaan. 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 USP Canaan?

   Mailing address:

   USP Canaan
   3057 Eric J. Williams Memorial Dr
   Waymart, PA 18472
   Phone: (570) 488-8000

5. What are the visiting hours at USP Canaan?

   Visiting hours at USP Canaan 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 (570) 488-8000 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 USP Canaan?

   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 USP Canaan for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at USP Canaan?

   You can send money to an inmate at USP Canaan 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 USP Canaan?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At USP Canaan, 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 USP Canaan?

   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 USP Canaan 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 USP Canaan, 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

Rehabilitation through structured learning forms the foundation of resident development initiatives at USP Canaan. The facility typically emphasizes skill-building across multiple areas to prepare individuals for successful community reintegration. These comprehensive initiatives may deliver services that address both immediate educational needs and long-term career preparation.

Educational initiatives often include basic literacy programs and GED preparation courses designed to help residents complete their high school equivalency. Tutoring programs may provide additional academic support for those working toward educational goals. Additionally, vocational training initiatives typically offer hands-on instruction in trades that align with regional employment opportunities. These programs often focus on developing marketable skills that residents can utilize upon release.

Support services complement the educational and vocational components through targeted assistance programs. Job placement assistance may help residents connect with potential employers and develop interview skills. Time management initiatives typically teach practical life skills essential for maintaining employment and meeting daily responsibilities. Additionally, substance abuse treatment programs often provide therapeutic support for residents addressing addiction issues. Prison industries initiatives may offer work experience opportunities that allow residents to develop professional habits while contributing to facility operations.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured schedules currently govern every aspect of daily operations, with consistent routines that continue to provide residents with predictable frameworks for their time. Count times occur at regular intervals throughout each day, while meal service, work assignments, and recreational periods follow established timeframes that residents can anticipate. This systematic approach typically delivers stability through organized programming that includes educational opportunities, vocational training, and structured activities designed to maintain order and purpose.

Housing units generally accommodate residents in cells or dormitory-style arrangements, with personal property allowances that may include approved clothing, hygiene items, and limited personal effects. Meals are typically served in designated dining areas at scheduled times, with menu options that meet basic nutritional requirements. Additionally, commissary services usually allow residents to purchase approved items to supplement their basic provisions, while laundry facilities and medical services operate on established schedules that residents learn to navigate.

Recreation opportunities often include access to exercise areas, library services, and various programming activities that may encompass educational classes, religious services, and skills development workshops. While security protocols maintain necessary oversight, visitation policies typically allow approved family members and friends to maintain contact through scheduled visits, phone calls, and correspondence. Work assignments within the facility generally provide residents with structured daily responsibilities that may include food service, maintenance duties, or other operational support roles that contribute to the facility's daily functioning.