Breaking Barriers: How to Send Pictures to Inmates on Corrlinks and Foster Connections

Yulia Chive

2 min read

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03-01-2025

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Breaking Barriers: How to Send Pictures to Inmates on CorrLinks and Foster Connections

Staying connected with loved ones who are incarcerated is crucial for their well-being and successful reintegration into society. For many, maintaining these bonds relies heavily on communication tools like CorrLinks. While CorrLinks primarily facilitates email, understanding how to effectively share photos adds a powerful dimension to this vital connection. This guide will walk you through the process of sending pictures to inmates via CorrLinks and offer tips for strengthening those important relationships.

Understanding CorrLinks' Limitations and Capabilities:

CorrLinks is a secure messaging system, prioritizing safety and security. This means there are limitations on what you can send. Directly sending photo attachments isn't always possible, depending on the specific facility's policies. However, there are workarounds that can allow you to share those precious memories.

Methods for Sharing Pictures:

1. Printing and Mailing: The most reliable method, though less immediate, involves printing photos and mailing them via the U.S. Postal Service. Remember to adhere to the facility's specific guidelines regarding photo size, number, and content. Many prisons prohibit photos depicting nudity, violence, or gang-related imagery. Always check the prison's visitation policies and/or contact the facility directly for clarification.

2. Using the CorrLinks Email System (with caveats): Some facilities allow you to describe pictures in your emails. While you can't attach a photo file, you can creatively describe the image to your loved one, bringing the moment to life through your words. For instance, instead of sending a picture of a child's birthday party, describe the decorations, the cake, and the child's joyful expression.

3. Third-Party Services (with extreme caution): Some services claim to facilitate photo delivery to inmates, often for a fee. Proceed with extreme caution. Thoroughly research any such service before using it; fraudulent services are prevalent, and you risk financial loss or exposing personal information. Always verify the legitimacy of the service with the correctional facility directly.

Tips for Strengthening Connections Through Photos:

• Choose meaningful photos: Select pictures that evoke positive memories and emotions. Family gatherings, holidays, or special moments are ideal choices.
• Keep it current: Share recent photos to keep your loved one involved in your life and show them what they're missing.
• Caption your descriptions: If you're describing photos in emails, add captions or details to help your loved one visualize the scene.
• Focus on the positive: Avoid sending pictures that might trigger negative emotions or reminders of past mistakes.
• Respect the rules: Always follow the correctional facility's regulations regarding photo content and delivery. A violation could severely impact communication privileges.
• Consider a photo album (if allowed): If the facility permits, creating a physical photo album and mailing it can be a cherished gift.

Beyond Pictures: Maintaining Connections:

Sending pictures is only one aspect of maintaining a strong connection. Regularly writing emails, participating in phone calls, and arranging visits (when possible) are equally important. These methods build a stronger bond and offer crucial support during incarceration.

Important Note: Always verify the specific rules and regulations of the correctional facility before attempting to send any photos. Contact the facility directly to avoid delays or rejection of your correspondence.

By understanding CorrLinks' capabilities and limitations, and by employing creative methods, you can effectively share visual memories with your incarcerated loved one, strengthening your connection and fostering hope during a challenging time. Remember, consistent effort and adherence to regulations are key to maintaining communication and supporting your loved one.