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 Wende Correctional Facility.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Wende Correctional Facility 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 Wende Correctional Facility.

Frequently asked questions about Wende Correctional Facility

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 Wende Correctional Facility.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Wende Correctional Facility?

   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 Wende Correctional Facility?

   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 Wende Correctional Facility. 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 Wende Correctional Facility. 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 Wende Correctional Facility?

   Mailing address:

   Wende Correctional Facility
   3040 Wende Rd
   Alden, NY 14004
   Phone: (716) 937-4000

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Open 24 hours
   • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
   • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
   • Thursday: Open 24 hours
   • Friday: Open 24 hours
   • Saturday: Open 24 hours
   • Sunday: Open 24 hours

5. What are the visiting hours at Wende Correctional Facility?

   Visiting hours at Wende Correctional Facility 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 (716) 937-4000 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 Wende Correctional Facility?

   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 Wende Correctional Facility for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Wende Correctional Facility?

   You can send money to an inmate at Wende Correctional Facility 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 Wende Correctional Facility?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Wende Correctional Facility, 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 Wende Correctional Facility?

   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 Wende Correctional Facility 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 Wende Correctional Facility, 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 New York Department of Corrections and Community Supervision provides a comprehensive range of rehabilitation and support programs at Wende Correctional Facility, designed to address the diverse needs of incarcerated individuals. The facility’s programming includes alcohol and substance abuse treatment, anger management, and specialized sex offender treatment programs, alongside trauma-focused interventions that help residents address underlying issues contributing to their incarceration. Educational and vocational training opportunities work in conjunction with guidance and counseling services to prepare individuals for successful reintegration into their communities.

Family development programs and transitional services play a crucial role in maintaining connections and preparing for release, while veterans services provide specialized support for those who have served in the military. The facility typically maintains both library and law library services, enabling residents to pursue educational goals and legal research. Religious services and recreational programs may offer additional outlets for personal growth and community building within the facility environment.

Volunteer services and programs often supplement the facility’s offerings, potentially bringing additional educational workshops, mentorship opportunities, and skill-building activities to residents. Temporary release programs may provide qualified individuals with opportunities to maintain employment or participate in community-based treatment, while comprehensive transitional services help coordinate housing, employment, and continued support services prior to release. These programs collectively aim to reduce recidivism by addressing the educational, vocational, and therapeutic needs of the incarcerated population.

Daily Life & Visitation

At Wende Correctional Facility in Alden, New York, the rhythm of each day is structured around the facility’s maximum security protocols and comprehensive programming schedule. Located at 3040 Wende Road, this male facility operates under the supervision of Superintendent Christopher Yehl, with daily operations typically beginning before dawn with security counts and continuing through carefully scheduled meal times, work assignments, and program participation. The facility serves Erie County and maintains strict security measures while providing access to various rehabilitative services throughout the week.

Family connections remain a vital part of life at Wende, with visitation currently available on weekends dedicated from 9:00 AM to 3:15 PM, though visitors must arrive by 2:15 PM. The facility accommodates up to three visitors plus one child under five per visit on a established-come, established-served basis, allowing families to maintain important relationships during incarceration. For those in the Special Housing Unit, visits are more limited to one non-legal visit within each seven-day period. The facility also operates specialized visitation arrangements for individuals in the Residential Medical Unit, with weekday visits in designated rooms if medically cleared, or weekend-dedicated visits in a dedicated RMU visiting room.

Programming opportunities help structure daily routines and provide pathways for personal development, with Wende offering alcohol and substance abuse treatment, educational and vocational training, anger management, family development programs, and religious services. The facility typically provides access to library services, recreational activities, and counseling programs, while also maintaining specialized services such as trauma programs, veterans services, and transitional support. These programs may be scheduled throughout the week, creating a framework that balances security requirements with opportunities for skill-building and preparation for eventual reintegration into the community.