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 Wateree River Correctional Institution.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Wateree River Correctional Institution 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 Wateree River Correctional Institution.

Frequently asked questions about Wateree River Correctional Institution

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 Wateree River Correctional Institution.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Wateree River Correctional Institution?

   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 Wateree River Correctional Institution?

   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 Wateree River Correctional Institution. 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 Wateree River Correctional Institution. 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 Wateree River Correctional Institution?

   Mailing address:

   Wateree River Correctional Institution
   8200 State Farm Rd
   Rembert, SC 29128
   Phone: (803) 432-6191

5. What are the visiting hours at Wateree River Correctional Institution?

   Visiting hours at Wateree River Correctional Institution 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 (803) 432-6191 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 Wateree River Correctional Institution?

   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 Wateree River Correctional Institution for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Wateree River Correctional Institution?

   You can send money to an inmate at Wateree River Correctional Institution 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 Wateree River Correctional Institution?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Wateree River Correctional Institution, 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 Wateree River Correctional Institution?

   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 Wateree River Correctional Institution 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 Wateree River Correctional Institution, 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

Building stronger foundations for successful reintegration begins with comprehensive support services that address the diverse needs of the population. The facility typically emphasizes a holistic approach to rehabilitation, recognizing that meaningful change occurs when individuals have access to educational opportunities, practical skills training, and personal development resources. These programs often focus on preparing participants for productive community involvement while fostering personal growth and responsibility.

Educational services form a cornerstone of the facility's offerings, providing the population with opportunities to advance their academic achievements and develop essential life skills. Vocational programs may supply hands-on training in practical trades, helping participants build marketable skills for future employment. In addition to this, specialized training in areas such as masonry and facility maintenance often gives individuals direct experience in construction and building trades that can translate into career opportunities upon release.

Faith-based initiatives typically provide spiritual guidance and community support for those seeking personal transformation through religious practice and fellowship. Music programs may offer creative outlets that promote self-expression and emotional healing while building confidence and teamwork skills. These supportive services often work together to create an environment where the population can develop both practical abilities and personal resilience, ultimately supporting their successful transition back to their families and communities.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured scheduling and clear organizational protocols shape every aspect of the experience for the population at Wateree River Correctional Institution. At present, residents follow established daily routines that actively incorporate meals, work assignments, and programming activities within a framework designed to maintain order and security. The facility typically operates on a schedule that includes morning counts, structured meal times, and designated periods for various activities throughout the day.

Housing arrangements generally consist of dormitory-style living units where the population resides in shared spaces with basic furnishings and personal storage areas. Residents usually have access to common areas within their housing units and may maintain limited personal property according to facility guidelines. In addition to this structured living environment, the commissary system allows individuals to purchase approved items to supplement their basic needs, while meals are typically served in designated dining areas at scheduled times throughout the day.

Programming schedules supply the population with opportunities for education, vocational training, and recreational activities that may include outdoor exercise periods and organized sports when weather permits. Despite this structured environment, family connections remain important through scheduled visitation periods and communication options that typically include monitored phone calls and correspondence. Work assignments within the facility often provide residents with opportunities to develop skills while contributing to daily operations, and these positions may range from kitchen duties to maintenance tasks depending on individual qualifications and facility needs.