How can I get a message for my inmate to call me?

If your daughter has just arrived at a correctional facility in Plains, Texas, and you've already deposited funds for her to make a call, but you haven’t heard from her yet, there are a few steps you can take to ensure she knows to call you:

1. Send a Written Letter or Postcard:

• Quickest Direct Method: Write a letter or postcard to your daughter at the facility, clearly stating that you’ve deposited funds for her to call you. Include your phone number and let her know you’re waiting for her call. Inmates typically check their mail frequently, so this is an effective way to communicate your message.
• Include Important Details: Write your return address on the envelope so she knows exactly who the letter is from, and include any additional information you think might help her feel comfortable reaching out.

2. Check Phone Account Registration:

• Ensure that your phone number is correctly registered with the inmate phone service provider used by the facility (e.g., Securus, GTL, or IC Solutions). If your phone number isn’t properly registered or there are issues with the account, she may not be able to connect with you.

3. Contact the Facility Directly:

• Ask the Staff for Assistance: Call the Plains facility where your daughter is housed and inquire if there’s a way for them to inform her that funds are available for her to make a call. While staff members can’t always guarantee they’ll pass along messages, some facilities may be willing to notify her that she can use the phone.
• Verify Your Information: Ensure that you have the correct inmate ID number, facility name, and location details when you call the facility to make it easier for staff to assist.

4. Check the Facility’s Communication Policies:

• Understand Call Schedules: Inmates are often restricted to certain hours when they can make phone calls. Familiarize yourself with the facility’s calling schedule so you know when to expect her call.

5. Send Money to Her Commissary Account (If Not Already Done):

• Ensure that you’ve deposited money into her commissary account, which might be required for her to access the phone system. In some facilities, phone funds are separate from commissary funds, so make sure the deposit is correctly allocated for phone use.

6. Enroll in a Messaging Service (If Available):

• Some facilities offer electronic messaging services, similar to email, through providers like JPay or GTL. This allows you to send a message directly to your daughter, notifying her that you’ve set up the phone account and are waiting for her call.

By following these steps, you can effectively let your daughter know that you’ve set up funds for her to call you, and you’ll increase the chances of reconnecting with her as soon as possible.