Aside from death, getting arrested is one of the worst things that can happen to you. Not only do you have to worry about going to trial and paying bail, but you also have to be concerned about connecting with other inmates.

The prison system knows inmates have support systems, so there must be creative ways to contact them. For example, you can send letters to inmates and keep in touch, but you must know how to do it.

How do you send letters to them? Here are our tips on how to contact an inmate.

Locating the Individual

A simple process such as an inmate search allows you to learn the whereabouts of someone incarcerated. For instance, if you want to know how to send letters to someone in jail, you first need to find out where they are being held.

There are several ways to search for a prisoner, such as checking state and county websites. You can also use resources like the Federal Bureau of Prisons Inmate Locator. Another way is contacting the State Department of Corrections.

Appropriate Materials and Content Guidelines

Materials and content sent to or received by an inmate must be appropriate. Any material that does not meet the guidelines should not be sent or received, and if it is, the recipient may be subject to disciplinary action.

Items with profanity or content that provoke violence or would encourage drug use or breaking the law are not permitted. Additionally, they prohibit items with sexual content. Of course, you can always check with the individual facility for other content or material guidelines.

Mail Room Procedures and Structure

Before an inmate can receive mail, the mail room at the correctional institution must process it. Security staff opens and inspects all mail to ensure the safety of both inmates and staff. They remove or destroy contraband, such as money, weapons, or drug paraphernalia.

The process includes verifying that the letter is addressed to the intended inmate, using the name and incarcerated identification number. Then, all remaining correspondence is resealed, marked as received, and delivered to the individual.

The inmate can also send mail. But all outgoing correspondence must also bear the name and identification number of the person, as well as a date.

Affix proper postage also to the package. They will only accept the mail if all the abovementioned criteria are met.

Drafting a Meaningful and Thoughtful Letter

Start by introducing yourself. Include details that will help the inmate get to know who you are and what your relationship is. Then, tell them the purpose and the content of your letter.

From there, share stories and ideas that might build on the content you mentioned earlier. Include words of support, understanding, and empathy.

Let them also know that you are interested in how their life is going, how they are doing, and anything else you may have to discuss.

Finish your letter with encouragement and sign it with your name. Keep your letter positive and sincere. While writing a letter to an inmate is a small effort, it can make a big difference in their life.

Contact an Inmate and Make a Difference Today

Writing to an inmate can be an invaluable connection to the outside world and provide much-needed encouragement. But, before you contact an inmate, double-check the jail’s policy and be aware of any legal repercussions.

Invite others to write and consider sending care packages you establish the contact. It’s time to make a connection!

If you find this article helpful, review our other blog posts to learn more.