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 Van Buren County Jail Division.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Van Buren County Jail Division 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 Van Buren County Jail Division.

Frequently asked questions about Van Buren County Jail Division

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 Van Buren County Jail Division.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Van Buren County Jail Division?

   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 Van Buren County Jail Division?

   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 Van Buren County Jail Division. 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 Van Buren County Jail Division. 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 Van Buren County Jail Division?

   Mailing address:

   Van Buren County Jail Division
   205 S Kalamazoo St
   Paw Paw, MI 49079
   Phone: (269) 657-2171

5. What are the visiting hours at Van Buren County Jail Division?

   Visiting hours at Van Buren County Jail Division 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 (269) 657-2171 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 Van Buren County Jail Division?

   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 Van Buren County Jail Division for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Van Buren County Jail Division?

   You can send money to an inmate at Van Buren County Jail Division 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 Van Buren County Jail Division?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Van Buren County Jail Division, 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 Van Buren County Jail Division?

   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 Van Buren County Jail Division 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 Van Buren County Jail Division, 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

Communication services form a cornerstone of inmate support at Van Buren County Jail in Paw Paw, Michigan, where both traditional phone and mail communications remain consistently available to the incarcerated population. The facility provides remote video visitation options alongside in-person visits, with each inmate receiving a complimentary 15-minute video visit weekly to help maintain crucial family connections during their incarceration.

Beyond these communication services, Van Buren County Jail may offer educational programming typical of Michigan correctional facilities, which often includes basic literacy instruction, GED preparation courses, and life skills workshops. The facility typically provides access to counseling services that may address substance abuse issues, anger management, and mental health support to help inmates work toward rehabilitation goals. Religious services and chaplaincy programs are commonly available to support the spiritual needs of the inmate population.

The jail may also facilitate vocational training opportunities and work programs that allow inmates to develop job skills while serving their sentences. Medical and mental health services are typically provided to ensure comprehensive care for inmates with various health needs. These programs, combined with the facility's commitment to maintaining family connections through flexible visitation options, work together to support both the immediate needs of inmates and their preparation for successful reintegration into the community upon release.

Daily Life & Visitation

Located at 205 S Kalamazoo Street in Paw Paw, the Van Buren County Jail maintains structured communication and visitation policies that shape much of the daily experience for residents. Each inmate typically receives a complimentary 15-minute video visit weekly, with remote video visitation options available alongside traditional in-person visits at the facility's lobby terminal. Phone and mail communications continue to operate under standard protocols, allowing residents to maintain important connections with family and friends throughout their stay.

The facility operates under typical county jail schedules, with residents generally following structured daily routines that may include designated meal times, recreation periods, and programming opportunities. Like most Michigan county facilities, the jail likely provides basic amenities and services while maintaining security protocols appropriate for a county-level correctional facility. Staff members work to balance security requirements with the operational needs of housing individuals awaiting court proceedings or serving shorter sentences.

Families seeking to maintain contact with residents can utilize multiple communication methods, including the video visitation system, traditional phone calls, and mail correspondence. The Sheriff's Office, which oversees jail operations, maintains regular business hours Monday through Friday from 8 am to 4 pm for administrative matters, bonds, and other services. The facility's lobby remains accessible for essential services including fingerprinting, bond processing, and visitation access, ensuring that necessary legal and family connections can be maintained during a resident's stay.