As anyone who has been in that position knows, there are few things as anxiety-inducing as having a loved one locked up. It’s hard to keep in touch from afar and even harder to ensure they have what they need while they serve time.
Fortunately, sending mail to incarcerated loved ones is easier than ever. With some planning and prep, you can ensure your friend or a family member has everything they need during their sentence without giving up your sense of peace or stirring up unnecessary stress.
Here are some tips on how you can send mail to your incarcerated loved one:
Do a Tarrant County Inmate Search To Find Them
The first step to sending your loved one mail from home is finding them. The easiest way is by doing a Tarrant County inmate search. You can find the relevant database for your loved one’s prison online.
In most cases, you must provide the person’s name and date of birth. With that information, you can find out which facility they are at and their housing location.
That last part may seem inconsequential, but it is a vital part of how you will communicate with your loved one. Inmates are not allowed to receive handwritten letters or anything else that may be deemed a threat to their safety. They also cannot receive packages that contain anything that may be considered contraband, such as weapons, drugs, or alcohol.
Create A Mailing Schedule
Once you know where your loved one is, you can start to think about how you will communicate with them. In most cases, letters are the best option. They help keep your loved one connected to the outside world and help them stay positive about the future.
Letters also make an excellent gift for special occasions.
Just make sure to send them on a schedule. Inmates are often under a lot of stress. They may also be dealing with trauma and other mental health issues that make keeping a positive outlook difficult.
Having you write regularly can help them stay strong and focused on the future. It can also help them feel like they are still part of your life and remind them that they are not alone and someone is looking out for them.
Pack A Care Package
If you want to send something more substantial than letters, you can send a care package. It can be a great way to show your love for your loved one while providing them with the essentials they may need behind bars.
Generally, you should avoid bringing any food items into the prison. That’s because there is a high risk of contamination. It also means that your loved one may be unable to eat it. Instead, you can pack items like toiletries, snacks, and clothing.
Just do your research since prisons will not allow certain items. If you are unsure, you can always use gift cards that can be used at shops inside. That way, your loved one can choose what is best for them.
Summing It Up
Sending mail to a loved one in the county can be a great way to stay connected. With the right planning and care, you can ensure that you and your loved one can benefit from your correspondence.
You can start by doing an online inmate search to learn more about the rules that apply to the facility your loved one is at. Next, you can create a mailing schedule that suits you and your loved one’s needs. Finally, you can pack a care package or send a letter to determine the rules first.
With these tips, you can ensure your loved one has what they need while serving their sentence, and you can stay connected without risking anyone’s safety.
