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 Wasco State Prison.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Wasco State Prison 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 Wasco State Prison.

Frequently asked questions about Wasco State Prison

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 Wasco State Prison.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Wasco State Prison?

   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 Wasco State Prison?

   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 Wasco State Prison. 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 Wasco State Prison. 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 Wasco State Prison?

   Mailing address:

   Wasco State Prison
   701 Scofield Ave
   Wasco, CA 93280
   Phone: (661) 758-8400

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Thursday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Friday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Wasco State Prison?

   Visiting hours at Wasco State Prison 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 (661) 758-8400 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 Wasco State Prison?

   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 Wasco State Prison for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Wasco State Prison?

   You can send money to an inmate at Wasco State Prison 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 Wasco State Prison?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Wasco State Prison, 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 Wasco State Prison?

   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 Wasco State Prison 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 Wasco State Prison, 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

The Division of Rehabilitative Programs at Wasco State Prison-Reception Center provides residents with comprehensive educational opportunities, including GED preparation, the Testing of Adult Basic Education (TABE), and library services. Through partnerships with Coast Line Community College, the facility offers an Independent Study Program alongside the Correctional Learning Network, allowing individuals to pursue higher education goals. Academic support may also include basic literacy programs and computer skills training to help prepare residents for successful reintegration.

Vocational training encompasses electronics and office services with related technology components, while the Prison Industry Authority operates laundry and farm enterprises that provide hands-on work experience. The facility maintains eight inmate firefighter positions within its fire department program, offering specialized training in emergency response. Additional vocational opportunities may include construction trades, food service, and maintenance programs that develop marketable skills for post-release employment.

Behavioral health and family support services include Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous meetings, religious programs, and the Breaking Barriers cognitive awareness model. The facility offers specialized interventions such as Batterer’s Intervention programming that encompasses anger management, parenting education, and creative conflict resolution. A Family Liaison Service Specialist works through community partnerships to assist with family reunification and pre-release preparation, while programs like Friends Outside provide additional family support services. The Slow Down/Despacio youth diversion program demonstrates the facility’s commitment to preventing future involvement in the justice system.

Daily Life & Visitation

Inmates at Wasco State Prison-Reception Center wake each morning in one of five distinct facilities (A, C, D, H, or M), each with its own mailing address and housing structure. The facility’s design as a reception center means many residents experience a structured intake process before potentially transferring to other institutions, creating a comprehensive environment where both new arrivals and longer-term inmates navigate their routines together.

The educational and vocational programs form a significant part of the weekly schedule, with inmates typically participating in GED classes, TABE testing, or vocational training in electronics and office services. The facility’s fire department program offers eight inmate positions, providing specialized training and responsibilities that break up the standard institutional routine. Religious services, AA/NA meetings, and the Breaking Barriers cognitive awareness program may also structure portions of inmates’ days, while the physical education and recreation periods offer opportunities for exercise and social interaction within the facility’s guidelines.

Family connections remain an important aspect of life at WSP, with the facility providing visiting opportunities and correspondence services for maintaining relationships with loved ones. The on-site Family Liaison Service Specialist works through community partnerships to help inmates prepare for eventual release while strengthening family bonds. Inmates can typically receive mail at their specific facility address, and the Friends Outside program may offer additional support services. The facility’s location in Wasco allows for visits from family members throughout California’s Central Valley region, though all visitation follows standard CDCR security protocols and scheduling requirements.