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 Winston County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Winston County Jail 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 Winston County Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Winston County Jail

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 Winston County Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Winston County Jail?

   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 Winston County Jail?

   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 Winston County Jail. 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 Winston County Jail. 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 Winston County Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Winston County Jail
   11 Blake Dr
   Double Springs, AL 35553
   Phone: (205) 489-5205

5. What are the visiting hours at Winston County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Winston County Jail 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 (205) 489-5205 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 Winston County Jail?

   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 Winston County Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Winston County Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Winston County Jail 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 Winston County Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Winston County Jail, 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 Winston County Jail?

   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 Winston County Jail 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 Winston County Jail, 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

Comprehensive support services form the foundation of rehabilitation efforts, connecting the population with resources that address both immediate needs and long-term success. The facility typically emphasizes a holistic approach to reentry preparation, recognizing that effective programs must address educational gaps, employment readiness, and personal development simultaneously. These services often focus on building practical skills while strengthening community connections that support successful reintegration.

Educational programs serve as a cornerstone of personal development, offering the population opportunities to advance their academic foundation and career prospects. Adult basic education classes may supply essential literacy and numeracy skills, helping participants work toward high school equivalency credentials. Additionally, these educational services often include computer literacy training and basic job readiness instruction, providing practical tools that enhance employment opportunities upon release.

Work release programs typically offer structured employment opportunities that allow participants to maintain family connections while developing workplace skills and financial responsibility. Faith-based programs may provide spiritual guidance and community support networks that extend beyond incarceration. Life coaching services often focus on goal-setting, decision-making skills, and personal accountability, while housing assistance programs typically help the population identify stable living arrangements and navigate the application processes for transitional housing resources.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured scheduling now governs every aspect of life within the facility, with administrative protocols establishing clear routines that the population follows regularly. Daily activities typically begin with morning counts and meal service, followed by scheduled programming, work assignments, or recreational periods. The population generally moves through designated areas according to established timeframes, with staff coordination ensuring orderly transitions between activities throughout the day.

Housing units at Winston County Jail typically accommodate multiple individuals in dormitory-style or cell configurations, depending on classification levels and available space. The population usually receives three meals daily in designated dining areas, with menu planning following standard nutritional guidelines for correctional facilities. Personal property allowances generally include basic hygiene items and limited personal belongings, while commissary services may offer additional items for purchase when available.

Additionally, structured programming schedules often include educational opportunities, substance abuse counseling, and religious services that supply meaningful activities for participants. While recreational time typically provides opportunities for physical exercise and social interaction within designated areas, visitation policies usually allow scheduled contact with family members and approved visitors. Work assignments throughout the facility may include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, and cleaning responsibilities that help maintain daily operations. Communication options generally include telephone access and mail services, enabling the population to maintain important family connections and support systems during their stay.