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 Western Correctional Institution.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Western 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 Western Correctional Institution.

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

   Mailing address:

   Western Correctional Institution
   13800 McMullen Hwy SW
   Cumberland, MD 21502
   Phone: (301) 729-7000

   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 Western Correctional Institution?

   Visiting hours at Western 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 (301) 729-7000 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 Western 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 Western Correctional Institution for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Western 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 Western Correctional Institution?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Western 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 Western 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 Western 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 Western 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

Personal transformation begins through structured learning environments where those incarcerated can develop essential skills for successful reintegration. Western Correctional Institution typically emphasizes security and safety while creating opportunities for meaningful growth through carefully designed offerings that address both immediate needs and long-term goals. The facility's approach centers on providing stable, structured pathways that may furnish participants with tools necessary for positive change.

Educational advancement forms a cornerstone of personal development, with education programs often including basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and continuing education opportunities delivered through secure classroom settings. Furthermore, vocational training offerings typically provide hands-on experience in practical trades that align with employment opportunities upon release. These structured learning environments emphasize both skill acquisition and workplace readiness, helping those incarcerated build confidence while developing marketable abilities.

Comprehensive support extends beyond traditional academics through therapeutic services that may address underlying challenges contributing to incarceration. The facility often includes dual diagnosis treatment for those managing both substance abuse and mental health concerns, delivered through evidence-based approaches within secure treatment settings. Furthermore, specialized training in areas such as masonry and janitorial services typically provides practical work experience while contributing to facility operations. These therapeutic offerings emphasize personal accountability and positive coping strategies, creating foundations for sustained behavioral change and successful community reentry.

Daily Life & Visitation

Family connections and social bonds remain central to the experience of those incarcerated at Western Correctional Institution, as residents work to maintain relationships while navigating their daily routines. Today typically begins with early morning counts and structured meal times that bring individuals together in communal dining areas. The facility consistently maintains schedules that furnish predictability, with residents moving between housing units, work assignments, and programming activities throughout the day. Generally, those incarcerated participate in various facility jobs that may include kitchen duties, maintenance work, or administrative support roles.

Living accommodations typically consist of shared cells or dormitory-style housing units where residents develop social connections with their peers. Although privacy may be limited, these arrangements often foster supportive relationships among those serving their sentences. Furthermore, the facility usually provides access to personal property allowances and commissary services, enabling residents to maintain some personal comforts and share items that strengthen community bonds within their housing areas.

Recreational opportunities generally include access to exercise facilities, outdoor recreation time, and organized activities that encourage positive social interaction. The facility typically offers structured programming schedules that may encompass educational classes, vocational training, and therapeutic groups designed to support rehabilitation goals. Furthermore, visitation policies usually allow for regular contact with family members and loved ones, while communication options often include phone calls and correspondence that help those incarcerated maintain vital connections to their support systems outside the facility walls.