Sample Letter to an Inmate
“Sample Letter”
sample letter to an inmate for support.
Sometimes the longer you have done in jail the less you want to hear from people so don’t get discouraged if at first you don’t get a response or the response you’re looking for. Trust isn’t given especially for or from a stranger.
Dear (name),
My name is (___), I am writing to let you know I recently read about your case and want you to know there are groups of activists working on cases like yours for clemency. These groups could also help you on your behalf for clemency if you were to qualify. Those groups are Cando Clemency, Freedomgrowforever.org, Chad Marks and Freedom Fighters, Weldon Angelos and Reeform and Zonka Miles, as well as others. We can out you in contact with these groups.
I am affiliated with (__) and am writing on their behalf as well. We are aware of your sentence and the time you have served. We want you to know that we think it’s wrong that anyone is locked up for a plant and will fight diligently for your compassionate releas should you qualify, And put you and your family in contact with one of the above groups to make sure you are represented for CCA relief.
While we work on getting your case to someone who can help, what are some needs you have or what are some ways we can assist you during your time? We can also assist with pen pals.
We hope this brightens your day just a bit and gives you hope knowing more of us know about your case and are supporting you and your family through these hard times. Please respond and let us know you received this letter and how we may proceed correspondence in the future.
Signed,
chris martin
Write a cannabis inmate today.
Pen Pal Survivor Guide
Additional Information
Pen-Pal Survivor’s Guide
Corresponding with friends and family is a life line that is vital to the survival of those on the inside. Mail call can be one of the best parts of a prisoners day, if they are lucky enough to receive mail. For many, mail is the only thing they can look forward to.
If you are reading this, then the chances are you have said yes to being a prison pen pal. On behalf of the prisoners, Thank You!
Every prison has its own rules and they are regularly changing. The following guidelines are for general information but it is always best to verify specific policies that may apply.
The Icebreaker
The biggest hurdle to beginning a pen-pal relationship is getting started. It is much simpler than one might think. Begin by introducing yourself. Share only what you are comfortable with. I tend to give a short bio that includes my hobbies, pets, likes and dislikes. It is also helpful to explain how you came to hear about your pen-pal.
Then, you wait…… The prison mail system can be slow. Sometimes it can take several weeks to get a response. But, before you send that letter keep the following in mind.
The Basics
- No stamps (other than postage stamp on envelope), stickers, tape, glue, glitter, staples, paper clips, fragrances, crayon, ribbon etc. on the envelope or letter. please use white envelopes only.
- All ingoing and outgoing mail is subject to inspection. Never include anything you wouldn't want staff to read.
- Please realize that even if you do everything “right” mail can be returned.
- Always include the prisoner’s full first name, prison ID#, institution name, and address on the envelope. For example: Joe Green #123456
Hard Knocks Correctional Institution
PO BOX 666
Behindtherazorwire, NY. 96666
- Always include your name and address on return space of envelope.
- No money, gifts, or postage stamps can be sent to a prisoner through the general mail.
- Greeting Cards rules are different for each institution. At this time black and white ink paper is the best bet. If an institution allows cards they will simply copy your card onto plain paper and give the pen pal the copy.
Sending Photographs
Prisoners love to get pictures. They love to see nature, pets, vacation photos etc. Pictures help them to see the world outside their cement walls and metal bars. Here are a few guidelines to keep in mind.
- Photos should be no larger than 4x6.
- Photos should never contain nudity, sexually suggestive material.
- Hand gestures and tattoos can be rejected due to fears of gang implications.
- Only 5 photos can be sent in an envelope with a single stamp at a time, and oftentimes a facility will only allow 3-5 photos.
- Remember staff and other inmates will be inspecting these.
Sending Books, Magazines, Newspapers
Prisoners are not allowed to receive gifts directly from friends and family but they are able to receive publications that come directly from the manufacturer. Simply put, they can be ordered from Amazon.com.
- Do not send more than 3 books at a time
- All books must be new and soft cover (no used, hardcover or spiral bound)
- Always ship USPS
- Use the prisoners name and ID number with the facility mailing address
- Magazines and newspapers can be ordered the same way as books. Please remember, the institution will accept magazines such as Maxim, Newsweek, Sports Illustrated and Home and Garden. They will reject magazines such as Penthouse and Hustler.
Sources:
https://www.bop.gov/policy/progstat/5265_014.pdf BOP Inmate Correspondence Policy
http://www.prisonpro.com/content/sending-books-letters-photos-inmate-important-rules-you-need-know