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 New Mexico University.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Western New Mexico University 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 New Mexico University.

Frequently asked questions about Western New Mexico University

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 New Mexico University.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Western New Mexico University?

   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 New Mexico University?

   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 New Mexico University. 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 New Mexico University. 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 New Mexico University?

   Mailing address:

   Western New Mexico University
   1000 W College Ave
   Silver City, NM 88061
   Phone: (800) 872-9668

   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 New Mexico University?

   Visiting hours at Western New Mexico University 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 (800) 872-9668 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 New Mexico University?

   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 New Mexico University for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Western New Mexico University?

   You can send money to an inmate at Western New Mexico University 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 New Mexico University?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Western New Mexico University, 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 New Mexico University?

   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 New Mexico University 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 New Mexico University, 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

Education programs and reprogramming opportunities form the cornerstone of rehabilitation efforts at Western New Mexico Correctional Facility (WNMCF) in Grants. The facility operates as a dual-purpose institution, housing both male and female populations in separate facilities with distinct security classifications. The women's facility serves as a Reception and Diagnostic Center for female offenders while accommodating Level 3 and Level 4 general population inmates, while the men's facility operates as a medium custody institution housing Level 2 and Level 3 offenders.

The facility's educational programming typically includes basic literacy courses, GED preparation, and adult basic education to help individuals develop fundamental academic skills. Vocational training opportunities may encompass trades such as food service, maintenance, and office skills that align with employment prospects upon release. Mental health and substance abuse counseling services are often available to address underlying issues that may have contributed to criminal behavior, while cognitive-behavioral programs may focus on decision-making skills and personal responsibility.

Support services at WNMCF likely include library access, recreational activities, and religious programming to promote personal growth and community connection. The facility maintains structured visitation policies and inmate mail systems to help individuals maintain family relationships during incarceration. Medical and dental care services are typically provided on-site, while case management and reentry planning may assist individuals in preparing for successful community reintegration. The transition of the men's facility from private to public operation in November 2021 may have enhanced program consistency and oversight within the New Mexico Corrections Department system.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Western New Mexico Correctional Facility in Grants operates as two distinct facilities serving different populations, with the women's facility housing Level 3 and Level 4 general population inmates alongside serving as a Reception and Diagnostic Center for female offenders. The men's facility, which transitioned from private to public operation in November 2021, accommodates medium custody inmates at Level 2 and Level 3 security classifications. This dual-facility structure typically means that daily routines may vary between the two locations, though both generally follow structured schedules that include meals, work assignments, educational programming, and recreational periods throughout the day.

Inmates at WNMCF have access to education programs and various reprogramming opportunities designed to support rehabilitation and skill development. The facility's educational offerings may include basic literacy classes, GED preparation, and vocational training programs that help prepare inmates for reentry into their communities. Daily schedules often incorporate time for these educational activities alongside work assignments that may include facility maintenance, food service, or other operational duties that help maintain the institution while providing inmates with valuable work experience.

Family connections remain an important aspect of daily life, with the facility maintaining specific visitation policies and procedures for both the men's and women's facilities. Approved visitors can maintain contact through scheduled visits, and families can support their loved ones by sending money orders to inmate accounts using the inmate's name and number. The facility also provides clear guidelines for inmate mail correspondence, allowing inmates to maintain important relationships with family and friends outside the facility walls, which often serves as a crucial component of successful rehabilitation and eventual reintegration.