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 Winona County Corrections Department.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Winona County Corrections Department 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 Winona County Corrections Department.

Frequently asked questions about Winona County Corrections Department

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 Winona County Corrections Department.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Winona County Corrections Department?

   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 Winona County Corrections Department?

   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 Winona County Corrections Department. 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 Winona County Corrections Department. 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 Winona County Corrections Department?

   Mailing address:

   Winona County Corrections Department
   171 W 3rd St
   Winona, MN 55987
   

5. What are the visiting hours at Winona County Corrections Department?

   Visiting hours at Winona County Corrections Department 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 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 Winona County Corrections Department?

   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 Winona County Corrections Department for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Winona County Corrections Department?

   You can send money to an inmate at Winona County Corrections Department 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 Winona County Corrections Department?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Winona County Corrections Department, 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 Winona County Corrections Department?

   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 Winona County Corrections Department 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 Winona County Corrections Department, 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 Winona County Detention Center (WCDC) has recently restored its capacity to accommodate individuals approved by the court system for specialized release programs, currently offering the Sentence-to-serve (STS) program while working to implement Huber Release opportunities in the near future. These alternative sentencing options demonstrate the facility's commitment to providing structured pathways that may allow eligible participants to maintain employment or address personal responsibilities while serving their sentences under supervised conditions.

Beyond these court-approved programs, the facility typically provides essential support services that may include basic educational opportunities, substance abuse counseling, and mental health resources. Many Minnesota county detention facilities often offer religious services, library access, and recreational activities to support the well-being of residents during their stay. The facility may also coordinate with local organizations to provide reentry planning assistance, helping individuals prepare for their transition back into the community.

WCDC's approach to programming appears focused on balancing public safety with rehabilitation opportunities, particularly through their work-release style programs. While the facility continues to develop its Huber Release program, the current STS offering suggests a commitment to evidence-based practices that may help reduce recidivism while allowing participants to maintain important community connections and responsibilities under appropriate supervision.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Winona County Detention Center currently operates a Sentence-to-serve (STS) program that allows eligible individuals to maintain certain community connections while serving their time. This program, which requires court approval, represents part of the facility's approach to balancing accountability with rehabilitation opportunities. While the facility is also developing a Huber Release program for future implementation, the current STS option provides a structured pathway for those who qualify through the judicial system.

Residents at the facility typically follow structured daily schedules that may include meal times, recreational periods, and programming activities common to Minnesota correctional facilities. The detention center likely maintains standard visiting procedures, though specific visitation hours and policies would need to be confirmed directly with the facility. Communication with family members often includes monitored phone calls and correspondence, following security protocols typical of county detention facilities.

The facility's focus on programs like STS suggests an emphasis on preparing individuals for successful community reintegration. Daily routines often incorporate elements designed to maintain personal responsibility and structure, which may include work assignments, educational opportunities, or other programming as available. As with most county detention centers in Minnesota, the facility operates under state regulations that govern everything from housing standards to medical care, ensuring that basic needs are met while maintaining appropriate security measures.