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This facility is for adult inmates.
The inmates housed at GDC - Wheeler Correctional Facility - CoreCivic located at 1100 North Broad St in Alamo, GA are placed according to their custody level and are incarcerated by a private company contracted by a government agency and are paid a per diem or monthly rate, either for each inmate in the facility or for each bed available. The facility is well-trained and well-staffed. This doesn't come without some controversy as the "price of incarceration" is big business and critics claim there is a monetary benefit to keeping people locked up. The flip side is this facility undergoes rigorous inspections and are some of the be maintained in the US.
For inmates that show a willingness to learn new things, there are educational and vocational training programs here that will prepare them for a successful reentry when released.
GDC - Wheeler Correctional Facility - CoreCivic - Fact Sheet
GDC - Wheeler Correctional Facility - CoreCivic - Inmate Handbook
GDC - Wheeler Correctional Facility - CoreCivic - Performance Incentive Credit (PIC) Program
GDC - Wheeler Correctional Facility - CoreCivic - Inmate Education Programs
Customer base: State of Georgia (GDC)
The United States Postal Services (USPS) prohibits the mailing of any of the following:
• Potentially hazardous materials that are not properly marked and packaged;
• Perishable items that are not properly marked and packaged;
• Correspondence containing any vile, or obscene material, and matter inciting violence or terrorism;
• Solicitations that mimic billing statements, unless accompanied by a prominent disclaimer;
• Solicitations stating approval by the USPS or Postmaster General, or conformance to any postal law or regulation; and
• Correspondence that bears deliberate imitations of postal markings and/or postal trademarks (e.g. “Priority Mail”, etc.). Correspondents are personally responsible for the content of each item of correspondence they send through the USPS. Any violation of laws governing correspondence will be referred to postal authorities and to appropriate criminal authorities. The sender may be subject to civil or criminal penalties and/or federal prosecution for violation of postal laws.
Prohibited Correspondence:
Correspondence containing malicious, false, inflammatory, or other types of statements or information, the purpose of which is reasonably intended to harm, or intimidate an employee, visitor, or guest may be prohibited. Correspondence that could reasonably jeopardize legitimate penalogical interests includes, but is not limited to:
• Plans to escape;
• Plans for criminal activities;
• Plans to introduce contraband into or out of the facility;
• Plans for activities in violation of facility rules;
• Threats to the safety and security of facility order, discipline or rehabilitation;
• Information which, if communicated, would create a clear and present danger of violence and physical harm to a human being (including racially inflammatory material);
• Letters or materials written in code or a foreign language when the inmate/resident understands English (unless the Warden/Administrator or designee determined that the recipient does not read and write fluently in English);
• Correspondence which attempts to forward unauthorized correspondence to a third party;
• Obscene material;
• Correspondence which encourages deviate sexual behavior which is criminal, in violation of facility rules, detrimental to the rehabilitation of inmates/residents, or determined by the Warden/Administrator or designee to be detrimental to the safety and security of the facility (these materials include, but are not limited to, pictures, drawings, or photographs which display or suggest vaginal, rectal, or oral penetration by a person or object, ejaculation, bestiality, sadistic or masochistic behaviors, child pornography, or the suggestion of child pornography);
• Correspondence which may enable one (1) or more inmates/residents to ascertain the time(s), date(s), and/or location(s) of upcoming off-site appointments or transports;
• Personal identifying information (e.g. birth certificate, social security number, driver’s license number, etc.) of individuals other than the inmate/resident’s and his/her immediate family; and
• Other general correspondence for which rejection is reasonably related to a legitimate penalogical interest. Prohibited Items: Items normally contained in general correspondence that are considered to be prohibited include, but are not limited to:
• Maps of the city where the facility is located or surrounding communities;
• Polaroid photographs;
• Photo negatives/slides;
• Photo albums;
• Photos of current or former employees;
• Framed photos;
• Greeting cards larger than 8 X 10;
• Greeting cards containing electronic or other non-paper parts;
• Greeting cards constructed in such a way to permit concealment of contraband;
• Stick on labels or stamps that appear to contain contraband;
• Items that are glued, taped, stapled, or otherwise affixed to a page; and
• Any items prohibited by law, regulations, or contract.
The Inmate Services division is comprised of seven units:
Education
Why provide academic education to offenders?
Correctional Education Association for the United States Department of Education, Office of Correctional Education, concluded, “offenders who participated in education programs while incarcerated showed lower rates of recidivism after three years”--a 29% reduction--and their “wages were higher.” Ninety-five percent of offenders will one day return to society and these areas are tasked with preparing offenders for their return to society as productive citizens. Per a recently published Rand Corporation study (2014), "How Effective Is Correctional Education, and Where do we go from here," it is reported that for every dollar in GED correctional education, there is future savings of $5.
Profile of Academic Education
Voluntary participation for offenders who do not have a high school diploma or GED
Daily enrollment is 4,500 - 5,000
Academic Education is comprised of one to three courses of study and is available in all State and Private Prisons, Probation Detention Centers, Residential Substance Abuse Treatment Centers, and most Transitional Centers (85 GDC sites)
General education and special education courses of study:
Literacy (L/RR)
Adult Basic Education (ABE)
General Education Diploma Preparation (GED Prep)
Charter High School Program (HS diploma)
ESL and Braille available at select facilities
2,500-3,000 GED examinations annually; 70% passing rate
Classroom-based instruction delivered by part-time and full-time GDC staff, supplemented by instructors from local area Technical colleges. Charter School teachers are staffed by Foothills Education Charter High School.
Post-secondary academic study available providing that the recipient has approval and pays all post-secondary costs
Overview The Education & Programs division is comprised of four units:
• Chaplaincy
• Education
• Risk Reduction Services
• Vocational
These units are critical to the Governor’s criminal justice reform and the prison reentry initiative. Ninety-five percent of offenders will one day return to society and these areas are tasked with preparing offenders for their return to society as productive citizens
CHAPLAINCY
Promote peaceful communities by demonstrating the following:
• Elimination of violence
• Assistance in reentry preparation
• Reduction of recidivism
New Orleans Baptist Theologicial Seminary
• GDC’s only 4-year college program
• Graduates receive a degree in Theology
• Located at Phillips State Prison in Buford
The program is offered in two or four-year cycles and has up to 30 offenders per class. Offenders must have proof of a high school diploma, GED or college courses, must have a minimum of five years left to serve, must not have any disciplinary reports for 12 months, recommendation by staff and must voluntarily participate.
EDUCATION
• Voluntary participation for offenders who do not have a high school diploma or GED
• Daily enrollment is 4,500-5,000
• Available in all state and private prisons, boot camps, probation detention centers (PDC), residential substance abuse treatment centers and most transitional centers (TC).
• A total of 85 GDC sites • Comprised of one to three courses of study
• General education and special education courses of study are as follows:
• Literacy (L/RR)
• Adult Basic Education (ABE)
• General Education Diploma Preparation (GED Prep)
• ESL and Braille available at select facilities
• 2,500 to 3,000 GED examinations are administered annually with a 70% passing rate
• Classroom-based instruction is delivered by part-time and full-time GDC staff, supplemented by instructors from local area Technical Colleges
• Post-secondary academic study available providing that the recipient has approval and pays all post-secondary costs Charter School Program
• 7 out of 10 inmates lack a high school diploma
• Charter schools will allow inmates the opportunity to complete their high school educations and receive diplomas
• In January 2015, classes began at Lee Arrendale State Prison for the state’s female offenders
• Partnership with the Mountain Education Charter School
• Expansion plans will create the opportunity for male offenders to receive a high school diploma at Burruss Correctional Training Center
• Partnership with Foothills Education Charter School GED Fast Track
• In July 2014, GDC launched a fast track program at three medium security prisons: Lee Arrendale, Johnson, and Washington State Prisons
• Designed for offenders who have higher reading and math levels
• 10 to 12 week program
RISK REDUCTION SERVICES
• A unit within the Georgia Department of Corrections’ (GDC) Education and Programs division which mandates the reduction in recidivism by providing research-based programs
• Provides constitutionally mandated or legally required programs
• Implements evidence-based programs that target crime-producing behavior
• Focuses on changing criminal thinking and reducing criminal behavior
• GDC partners with federal agencies, state and county agencies and non-profit and community-based organizations
SELECTION OF OFFENDERS FOR RISK REDUCTION PROGRAMS
• Selected by an assessment process that identifies an offender’s risk and needs
Primary Targets of Effective Offender Interventions
• Criminal thinking
• Substance abuse
• Education
• Employment
VOCATIONAL
Workforce Development Prepares offenders for employment
Classroom Training
• Auto Body Repair
• Auto Mechanics
• Auto Painting
• Barbering
• Braille Transcription
• Building/Industrial Maintenance
• Computer/Office Technology
• Cabinetry/Carpentry
• Commercial Driver’s License
• Computer/Electronic Repair (Microsoft Certification)
• Cosmetology
• Customer Service and Computer Technology
• Diesel Mechanics
• Drafting
• Electrical Wiring
• Food Preparation/Culinary Arts
• Graphic Arts/Printing
• Heating & Air Conditioning
• Masonry/Tile Setting
• Plumbing
• Veterinary Assistant (large and small animals)
• Visual Graphics
• Welding Technical College System of Georgia has collaborated with GDC to certify these programs and offer certificates to offenders who complete the program. On the Job Training (OJT)
• Offenders earn Technical College completion certificates certifying the skills learned while employed on their work assignments
Live Works Project
• Provide work experience for offenders in vocational education classes
• Offenders build, remodel, or repair items owned by state, county, local government and non-profit agencies TOPPSTEP
• Offender Parolee Probationer State Training Employee Program (TOPPSTEP) is a collaborative effort between the Department of Corrections, Department of Labor, Department of Human Resources and State Board of Pardons and Paroles
• Provides offenders with the documents needed to obtain employment upon release
• Documents include birth certificate and Social Security card
Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT)
RSAT is a nine-month residential substance abuse treatment program, which targets high risk, high needs offenders with a history of substance abuse as a crime-producing behavior leading to correctional supervision. This program is based on the Therapeutic Community Model. Offenders who are referred to RSAT are parole mandated and have an assessed need as identified by NGA or professional override. For more information, please click here.
Program Sites: Coastal State Prison (males), Johnson State Prison (males), Pulaski State Prison (females), and Valdosta State Prison (males).
Probation Substance Abuse Treatment Center (PSATC)
This is a nine-month residential substance abuse treatment program for probationers. Offenders are court-mandated for this program and have a history of substance abuse.
Program Sites: Bainbridge Probation Substance Abuse Treatment Center (males), Northwest Probation Substance Abuse Treatment Center (males) located at Walker State Prison, Lee Arrendale State Probation Substance Abuse Treatment Center (females) located at Lee Arrendale State Prison, Coastal Probation Substance Abuse Treatment Program (males) at Coastal State Prison, and Turner Probation Substance Abuse Treatment Center (males) located at Turner RSAT facility.
Integrated Treatment Facilities (ITF)
ITF is a nine-month program that actively combines interventions intended to address substance use and mental health disorders with the goal of treating both disorders, related problems, and the whole person more effectively. For more information on the agency’s ITFs, please click here
Program Sites: West Central Integrated Treatment Facility (females) located in Pike County and Appling Integrated Treatment Facility (males) located in Baxley, Georgia.
Transitional Services
Transitional Services establishes effective methods that permeate all levels of affected agencies and organizations to reduce recidivism through collaborative partnership that support offender placement into evidence-based interventions and continue through offender transition (reentry) to the community. Reentry is a process of transition that should begin when the offender enters our system or at pre-sentence. Reentry provides effective opportunities for offenders to achieve positive change and to be a more pro-social contributor to society.
Goals of Reentry
To build individual capacity of the offender to be a productive member of his/her family and community
To link offenders to program services necessary for successful transition and reentry into the community
To increase the community and correctional capacity to address the offender’s needs and identify community resources to match assessed needs
To enhance public safety by reducing recidivism among the formerly incarcerated population
To promote public safety through collaborative partnerships that support offender transition to the community
Transitional Services initiatives:
Faith and Character Based Programs/Dorms
Faith and Character Based initiative
The Georgia Department of Corrections implemented the Faith and Character Based Initiative in 2004 to provide the state of Georgia, Department of Corrections, and its citizens with a model for positive change by allowing offenders to strengthen their mind, body and spirit in an environment that promotes positive change.
The Faith and Character Based Initiative enhances public safety through community partnerships that will support the offender's successful transition from custody to community. Georgia’s Faith and Character Based programs have been shown to have a treatment effect of 10; meaning someone is 10 times less likely to return to prison after completing a Faith and Character Based program.
The program consists of a Faith and Character Based Prison in Walker County and Faith and Character Based dorm programs throughout the state. The program operates on a holistic approach, secular in nature, which involves our stakeholders and community volunteers in the process of the offenders learning to change their attitudes, beliefs and behaviors.
Our objective is to provide an atmosphere for offenders to develop interpersonal communication skills, understand diversity and participate in the rehabilitative process, by providing an environment for positive change through the promotion of personal accountability and responsibility, integrity, and the building of one's faith and character. Our vision is that coordinated community partnerships will enhance existing risk interventions and services; that participants will present fewer management problems as a result of involvement; that the program will increase awareness of the reentry needs of offenders; and that recidivism will be reduced due to the offender's ability to set positive, attainable goals for themselves and then to think and act in a responsible manner in the pursuit of those goals.
The Faith and Character Based Initiative consists of personal and spiritual growth and development under the supervision of a trained program coordinator. Participants are divided in to four phases, which follow a 12-month curriculum (for the dorms) and a 24-month curriculum for the prison for successful completion and graduation.
Reentry Partnership Housing Program
Reentry Partnership Housing
The Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) and the State Board of Pardons and Paroles (PAP) entered into an agreement to accomplish the Reentry Partnership Housing (RPH) for Residence-Problem Inmates (RPI) project. The RPH is designed to provide housing for work-ready convicted felons who remain in prison after the Parole Board has authorized their release due solely to having no residential options. Housing service provider applicants selected to participate in the RPH program must provide (directly or through written agreement with third parties) parolees with stable housing and food (room and board). In return, the RPH program will provide short-term financial assistance; generally $1,800.00 for three months of assistance. The goal of the program is to enhance the released offenders' ability to remain crime free once reentering society from the prison system.
This program involves a unique collaboration by several different agencies. GDC, PAP, and the Georgia Department of Community Affairs are critical partners. The State Housing Trust Fund for the Homeless (HTF) is the administrative agent for this program administered by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs.
Minimum standards for staff in the RPH are personal qualities of understanding, dedication, empathy and sensitivity to those facing challenges to reentry into community and should have moral social character, which is above reproach. Eligible applicants include non-profits, for-profits (including individuals), religious organizations, government, and quasi-government entities. Successful applicants (grantees) will be certified at the discretion of the State Board of Pardons and Paroles, with collaborative assistance provided by the Georgia Department of Corrections and the State Housing Trust Fund for the Homeless (administered by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs). While representatives of the RPH routinely inspect or visit the housing units approved for inmate placement, the RPH approval is strictly for placement of offenders in the RPH program and not to endorse or reject any facility for any other purpose.
Applications are for those who are interested in becoming housing service providers for released offenders. Please review eligibility requirements in the application package through the link below.
Downloads & Related Links
The application submission materials may be found online at: http://www.dca.state.ga.us/housing/specialneeds/programs/rph.asp
Veterans Administration
In-House Transitional Centers (Hall, Floyd, Coweta & Jackson counties)
Community Impact Programs
Grace Village
Social Security on-line benefit application program
Fatherhood Program
Community Coalitions
Intensive Re-Entry Program (IRP)
IRP is a 90-day Intensive Reentry Program, which targets non-violent offenders with a history of substance abuse as a causative factor leading to correctional supervision. The goal of the IRP is to give offenders tools they can use to abstain from drugs, alcohol and criminal behaviors once released, thereby reducing recidivism.
Program Sites: Coastal State Prison
Vocational and Postsecondary Education
Career, Technical, and Postsecondary Education
The Career, Technical, and Post-Secondary Education Unit prepares inmates for employment.
Vocational Classroom Training prepares inmates for employment in the following trades:
• Auto Body Repair
• Auto Mechanics
• Auto Painting
• Barbering
• Beekeeping
• Braille Transcription
• Building/Industrial Maintenance
• Computer/Office Technology
• Cabinetry/Carpentry
• Commercial Driver’s License
• Computer/Electronic Repair (Microsoft Certification)
• Cosmetology
• Customer Service and Computer Technology
• Diesel Mechanics
• Drafting
• Electrical Wiring
• Food Preparation/Culinary Arts
• Graphic Arts/Printing
• Heating & Air Conditioning
• Masonry/Tile Setting
• Plumbing
• Veterinary Assistant (large and small animals)
• Visual Graphics
• Welding
• Woodworking
Units of the University System of Georgia
The Department has collaborated with the University System of Georgia deliver these post-secondary education and programs and offer certificates to offenders who complete the programs. USG Partners include the University of Georgia and Middle Georgia State University.
Units of the Technical College System of Georgia
The Department has collaborated with the Technical College System of Georgia to certify and deliver programs and provide certificates to offenders who complete courses / programs. TCSG Partners include Central Georgia Technical College, Wiregrass Georgia Technical College, Albany Technical College, Athens Technical College, and Oconee Fall Line Technical College.
On the Job Training
On the Job Training offenders earn Technical College completion certificates certifying the skills learned while employed on their work assignments.
Live Work
Live Work Projects provide work experience for offenders in our vocational education classes. Offenders can build, remodel, or repair items owned by state, county, local government and non-profit agencies.
Serving the Families of Inmates
Incarceration affects many lives.
When a loved one goes to jail or prison, we know there are family members who care deeply and want to remain informed. Sometimes incarceration can mean separation from spouses or children. We know maintaining bonds with healthy relationships are so important. Even friends and church or community members often want to stay connected to inmates in our care.
We welcome those relationships and connections. Because when an inmate remains connected to supportive individuals, they are better equipped and motivated to return to society and make positive changes.
At CoreCivic, our mission is to benefit and protect all we serve. We seek to provide the highest-quality correctional services. Our commitment is to operate a safe and secure environment, to offer proven reentry programs that influence change, superior medical services, fair and ethical inmate treatment and oversight, and open and transparent access to our facilities.
While we encourage families to play an active role in an inmate’s life during incarceration, it is also our responsibility to ensure the safety of the inmates in our care, our staff, the community and all facility visitors. We are tirelessly committed to security at each of our facilities, nationwide.
Our security measures may seem overwhelming or intimidating, especially to someone entering a correctional facility for the very first time. So, this section of our website is here to help you become as comfortable and informed as possible.
Inmate Orientation
Within the first two weeks of arrival at a CoreCivic correctional facility, every inmate will attend the facility’s orientation program and receive a copy of the facility’s inmate handbook.
The inmate handbook includes all the information an inmate needs to start a productive life inside the facility and remain connected with family or lawyers.
A few handbook topics include:
• Requesting a medical appointment/available medical services
• Religious services
• Educational programs
• Recreation
• Commissary and creating an account
• Hygiene and grooming expectations
• Facility schedule
• Visitation information and schedule
Orientation and the inmate handbook ensure that inmates in our care can immediately address any concerns or questions and begin to participate in the programs and services offered at our facility.
Operations Concern Center
At all times, we remain committed to the fair and ethical treatment of those individuals entrusted to our care.
CoreCivic has in place clear and accessible processes for inmates and family members to make grievances known that include a dedicated telephone and email hotline. We investigate all allegations fully and cooperate and collaborate with other agencies and law enforcement, as needed.
Protecting Inmate and Detainee Rights
At CoreCivic, we take very seriously our responsibility to respect and uphold the rights and welfare of inmates and detainees in our care. Our employees learn about the company’s longstanding inmate and detainee rights policies in their initial, pre-service training and are refreshed on those commitments every year through in-service training. The information is clearly stated in CoreCivic’s employee handbook, and the policies are also shared with every inmate and detainee who enters one of our facilities. Equally as important, we fully comply with any and all inmate and detainee rights policies our government partners require.
Our dedicated employees – including chaplains, nurses, teachers and officers – are committed to ensuring that every individual in our CoreCivic facilities has:
Safety and Security
• Protection from personal abuse and injury, verbal abuse, corporal punishment, property damage and harassment. For example, CoreCivic has a robust sexual abuse prevention program in place
• Freedom from unreasonable searches.
• Protection from an inmate or detainee having power or authority over another.
• Separate housing for males and females when both sexes are housed in the same facility.
Inmate Wellness
Corrections provides inmates and detainees with the opportunity to pause and assess their lifestyles. For many, incarceration marks the first time in their adult lives when they will have seen a medical professional or received a regular and balanced diet. At CoreCivic, we are proud to offer life-changing services that will enable men and women to find healthy paths toward wellness. We do this through a wide array of options, including:
Nutrition Services
Mealtime is very important in our everyday lives. Food is known as such an important aspect of correctional operations that it is often directly tied to inmate behavior and morale. Not only do breakfast, lunch and dinner help provide daily structure and routines, they also have an impact on overall health and wellness.
Nutrition service is a vital aspect of CoreCivic operations. Guided by our individual government partners, CoreCivic takes great care to offers meals that support specialized diets and cultural preferences, while conforming to rigorous nutritional guidelines. Our team of culinary experts relies on a library of nearly 700 recipes to meet the dietary needs of those in our care. All meals provided at CoreCivic facilities are reviewed and approved by registered dietitians. On a daily basis, we provide meals that support religious diets and more than a dozen therapeutic diets. In fact, seven percent of those is our care receive specialized therapeutic diets that serve to support wellness for a wide array of medical conditions, including high blood pressure, diabetes, pregnancy, and autoimmune diseases.
For many, incarceration serves as a much-needed opportunity to receive consistent access to quality nutrition services. When people have access to sufficient food, they are able to make better choices, increase learning abilities, and combat various health issues. Through something as fundamental as food, we are able to help guide inmates down a path toward health and wellness, both while in our care and after their release.
Health Care
All too often, for many offenders, the first time they receive comprehensive health care is upon becoming incarcerated.
Upon intake at a CoreCivic facility, inmates are screened so that our medical professionals may manage existing concerns and address any new diagnoses. A typical CoreCivic facility has a medical unit where physicians, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and medical assistants can provide routine check-ups, manage sick calls and address non-emergency needs. Our correctional health care facilities typically include a dental clinic, too.
For offenders who experience mental health problems, from emotional conflict to mental illness, we have a team of qualified mental health professionals to assist them with their needs. Offenders are screened upon arrival at each facility, and if needed, they're referred to a psychologist, psychiatrist or mental health specialist for follow-up evaluation and intervention. We provide treatment in the form of medication, when needed, as well as group and individual counseling. All CoreCivic staff receive training in the identification of mental health crises, and they refer offenders to the professional staff whenever they suspect someone is experiencing a problem. We constantly monitor the offender population for signs of declining mental health and suicide risk, working actively to assist a troubled offender in his or her time of need.
CoreCivic adheres to standardized regulations and/or are certified by the American Correctional Association, Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations and/or the National Commission on Correctional Health Care. These organizations work to improve the quality of health care provided in jails and prisons by developing and maintaining nationally recognized standards for correctional health care.
Our correctional health care teams are supported by a regional network of medical professionals across the country and are led by a talented team at the company's headquarters. Additionally, CoreCivic facilities leverage medical technology to securely automate medical records, scheduling, medication administration, pill call and pharmacy services.
Wellness Activities
Recreational opportunities help provide relief and respite to those in our care. At CoreCivic facilities, recreational outlets are designed to help inmates stay active, get fit and interact with fellow offenders in positive, collaborative ways. Sports like basketball, activities like board games and hobbies like creative writing or knitting help inmates tap into their creativity while learning valuable lessons in teamwork, communication and mutual respect.
Within CoreCivic correctional facilities, recreational activities are managed and overseen by CoreCivic professionals, not limited to but including chaplains, unit managers, recreational supervisors and others. Our devoted and trained volunteers also contribute valuable recreational programs like crafts, reading groups and other enjoyable pastimes to offenders in our correctional centers.
Staying in Touch
Staying in touch with an inmate can be challenging due to time limitations, especially when your loved one is located a considerable distance away.
Sometimes frequent visitation simply isn’t possible. Even so, staying in touch can make all the difference.
We believe that maintaining connections with friends and family makes a positive impact on the inmates in our care – behaviorally, emotionally and academically – and increases their success rate upon release. Success stories make our day.
• We invite you to visit.
• We invite you to write and call.
• We invite you to be involved and connected.
• Telephone Calls and Phone Cards
• Hearing the sounds of a familiar voice can lift an inmate’s spirits. Typically, our correctional facilities allow inmates to make collect calls.
• Each facility has a bank of phones that are provided for inmate calls. Inmates may use these phones to make collect calls or use their pre-paid calling card.
• Detailed information on how your loved one can apply money to their calling card is provided in the inmate handbook and will vary by facility.
Mail
Written mail through the U.S. Postal Service is perhaps one of the easiest ways for friends and family to stay in touch with their loved one. Every facility provides mail service for the inmate population.
Guidelines for addressing mail correctly can be found on the webpage for each specific facility.
While standard letters and cards are generally acceptable at every facility, all other allowable mail will vary from facility to facility.
The majority of our facilities will not allow packages (anything larger than a standard letter or card) from friends and family into the facility. Unapproved mail may result in an expense to the inmate if the item has to be shipped back, destroyed or donated.
Some facilities will allow friends and family members to purchase items from an approved vendor (such as Amazon). The package can be mailed directly from the approved vendor to the facility.
Email access is not available at this time.
Inmate Accounts and Commissary
Inmates may need or receive money for various facility life activities, such as a calling card, medical co-pays, items from commissary, or even a paying job. Inmate money is managed through inmate accounts.
Generally, all our facilities have a commissary, which is an in-facility storehouse where food items, hygiene items and writing materials can be purchased. This is in addition to the meals and standard-issue clothing and hygiene products already supplied by and paid for by the facility. Inmates use the money in their inmate account to purchase these items.
Typically, friends and family may contribute money to an inmate’s account. Many of the facility profiles have instructions for contributing to an inmate account.
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GDC - Wheeler Correctional Facility - CoreCivic publishes the names of their inmates currently in their facility in Georgia. Your search should start with this locator first to see if your loved one is there.
The second box is the InmateAid Inmate Search. This database of inmates is user-generated content for the purpose of accessing and utilizing any or all of the InmateAid services. If you need our assistance creating your own inmate profile to keep in touch, email us at aid@inmateaid.com and we will assist you in locating your inmate.
As a last resort, you might have to pay for that information if we do not have it. The Arrest Record Search will cost you a small amount, but their data is the freshest available and for that reason they charge to access it.
Who can visit?
Visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitation list. Inmates may receive visits from immediate family (parents, brothers, sisters, spouse, grandparents, children and stepchildren). Inmates may also receive visits from significant others (member of an inmate's extended family, a friend, or some other person having a meaningful relationship with the inmate).
How do I get approved for visitation?
Visitors may be requested to complete a GCIC/NCIC consent form for GDC facilities authorizing release of driver and criminal history information to the Georgia Department of Corrections and this facility. Information received will determine approval/disapproval to visit the facility. Individuals considered as "significant others" must complete the "significant other" application process for visitation privilege.
How do minors get approved to visit?
Visitors under the age of sixteen (16) must be accompanied by an adult on the visiting list. Any searches of children sixteen (16) years and younger must be performed in the presence of the companied adult.
How long does the application process take?
Approximately 4-6 weeks
How will I know if I've been approved?
The inmate you are requesting to visit will receive a notice advising of the approval/denial of your visitation application.
What are the days and times of visitation?
Regular visiting is held on Saturdays and Sundays between the hours of 8:30 a.m. through 1:30 p.m. and then again at 2:30 p.m. through 7:30 p.m., Eastern Standard Time.
The visitation schedule is rotated between housing units every quarter.
SATURDAY
100 Unit 2:30 PM – 7: 30 PM
200 Unit 2:30 PM – 7: 30 PM
400 Unit 2:30 PM – 7: 30 PM
900 Unit 2:30 PM – 7: 30 PM
SATURDAY
500 Unit 8:30 AM – 1:30 PM
600 Unit 8:30 AM – 1:30 PM
700 Unit 8:30 AM – 1:30 PM
800 Unit 8:30 AM – 1:30 PM
SUNDAY
100 Unit 8:30 AM – 1:30 PM
200 Unit 8:30 AM – 1:30 PM
400 Unit 8:30 AM – 1:30 PM
900 Unit 8:30 AM – 1:30 PM
SUNDAY
500 Unit 2:30 PM – 7: 30 PM
600 Unit 2:30 PM – 7: 30 PM
700 Unit 2:30 PM – 7: 30 PM
800 Unit 2:30 PM – 7: 30 PM
Georgia Department of Corrections observes the following holidays:
• New Year's Day
• Martin Luther King, Jr's Birthday
• Confederate Memorial Day
• Memorial Day
• Independence Day
• Labor Day
• Columbus Day
• Veterans Day
• Thanksgiving Day
• Robert E. Lee's Birthday
• Washington's Birthday
• Christmas Day
HOLIDAY SCHEDULE
100 Unit 2:30 PM – 7: 30 PM
200 Unit 2:30 PM – 7: 30 PM
400 Unit 2:30 PM – 7: 30 PM
500 Unit 8:30 AM – 1:30 PM
600 Unit 8:30 AM – 1:30 PM
700 Unit 8:30 AM – 1:30 PM
800 Unit 8:30 AM – 1:30 PM
900 Unit 2:30 PM – 7: 30 PM
How long can I visit?
Visitors will be allowed to visit with an inmate during the scheduled time allotted for his housing unit. Normally, there will be no restrictions placed on length of visits during facility's established visitation periods. However, the Shift Supervisor has the authority to adjust the length of visitation times allotted to individual inmates, or to terminate visits, during time of overcrowding. If overcrowding requires of termination of visits, inmates who had their visits begun first will normally be first to have their visits terminated. However, such factors as relationships, frequency of visits, distance traveled, etc, will be taken into consideration. The Shift Supervisor may also terminate individual visits because of improper conduct or failure to abide by regulations.
Where do I park when I arrive at the facility?
Visitors are required to park in the designated visitor parking lot. Visitors must ensure that vehicle windows are closed and doors are locked. Visitors are not authorized to park in any of the restricted areas. Persons or pets are not allowed to be left in parked vehicles during visitation. All visitors will be required to sign in and out for all visiting sessions on the Inmate Visitor Register. Any small child incapable of signing in is required to be signed in by the adult visitor who is responsible for the child.
Will I be searched?
Visitors are required to pass through a metal detector before being allowed into visitation. In the event that a visitor is unable to pass through the metal detector or there is reasonable suspicion that the visitor is in possession of contraband, a pat and/or frisk search may be conducted. Prior to the pat and/or frisk search; the visitor must complete a Voluntary Search Consent. Any visitor who refuses to complete the consent form to be searched will not be allowed to visit until approved in writing by the Chief of Security or Administrative Duty Officer.
What is the dress code for visitation?
Visitors are required to wear appropriate attire. Shoes are required for all visitors, including children, at all times. Male visitors are required to wear shirts and full length trousers. Inappropriate clothing shall include, but not limited to:
• Dresses or tops with thin straps which expose shoulders or chest area in many manner
• Tube tops or halter tops of any type
• Any type of clothing which reveals the stomach or midriff area
• Any type of clothing that is made of sheer or transparent material
• Shorts of any kind or any kind of slacks that are above the knee (children aged twelve and under may wear shorts)
• Dresses, skirts, or similar garments that are more than two (2) inches above the knees
• Females are required to wear foundation type garments such as bras, panties, and slip
• Male visitors are not permitted to wear tank tops or short tops of any kind, nor see through tops made of net or mesh webbing. Shorts are not permitted (children twelve (12) and under may wear shorts)
Visitors are not allowed to wear inmate clothing or jewelry at any time during the visit.
What type of identification do I need to be allowed into the facility? Visitor must possess a current photo ID. The visitor's identification and car keys must be submitted to the visitation officer prior to entering the visitation area and will be returned at the completion of the visit.
What items am I allowed to bring to visitation? Visitors may only bring in authorized items identified by the facility (I.E. ID card, car keys, currency not to exceed $25.00, currency allowed consists of change and/or $1.00 bills). Visitors are not allowed to bring food or drink into the facility. Visitors are not allowed to bring food or drink into the facility. Visitors are not allowed to bring money for inmates when visiting. Musical instruments, radios, pets, cameras, or tape recorders will not be allowed in the visiting area. Visitors that appear to be under the influence of drug and/or alcohol will not be permitted to visit. The introduction, or attempted introduction, of any form of contraband into the visiting area or within the facility property will result in appropriate action taken by both the visiting room officer and administrative staff.
Entering a Facility for Visitation
Visiting a correctional facility can feel intimidating, especially for the first-time visitor.
We have our own specific processes and rules, strict security measures, uniformed staff and words and terminology you may not be familiar with. Ultimately, those security features are in place to protect you and your loved one although we understand the potential for concern or confusion.
Our goal is for visitors to be comfortable, even impressed, by our facility environment during your visit. We simply ask that you help us maintain safety and security by following our important guidelines.
Contraband and Personal Items
When entering one of our facilities, typically, visitors are only permitted to bring in an ID and a small amount of cash ($10 or less) or a vending card for use at the facility’s vending machines during visitation. Please check with the facility prior to visitation for specific information on the use of vending cards or cash.
Proper identification must be a valid driver’s license or a government-issued ID. Some facilities require a birth certificate to be presented for children attending visitation, so check the requirement of the specific facility you are visiting.
For security reasons, visitors will not be allowed to take any personal items or gifts into the facility – including cell phones, wallets, purses, food, gifts, magazines or books.
Attempting to pass any of these unapproved items through security, even if accidentally, is illegal. Please leave all personal items in your vehicle. Some facilities offer lockers in the facility lobby for storing these items.
Additionally, attempting to introduce illegal contraband, such as cigarettes, drugs and alcohol, weapons and cell phones, to a facility inmate is considered a security threat and will result in immediate legal action.
While we understand that some of these rules may be inconvenient or difficult for our visitors, it is our responsibility to keep all of our inmates, staff and visitors safe. These strict safety procedures are very important and are just one of the many ways we maintain a safe and secure environment.
Visitation and Inmate Contact
There are different types of visitation, depending on the facility and the inmate’s classification – contact visitation, noncontact visitation and, occasionally, video visitation.
Most of our facilities have both contact and noncontact visitation. Appropriate contact with your loved one – such as hugging – varies. Our staff will help you understand the appropriate contact rules for your time with your loved one.
Typically contact visitation will be held in a large room with tables. Some facilities have a designated visitation room. Others may use educational rooms for visitation.
Noncontact visitation includes the use of individual booths with telephones for speaking with inmates.
Video Visitation
A small number of CoreCivic correctional facilities provide video visitation. Video visitation is especially useful for those inmates incarcerated in another state.
To participate in a video visitation session, the inmate must schedule a specific visitation time. CoreCivic will partner with a local church or other organization to provide the video visitation equipment and session for the visitor.
For specific information on video visitation, please contact the facility directly.
Preparing for Visitation
At CoreCivic, our dedicated team of corrections professionals goes to prison or jail every day. Uniforms, metal detectors, security measures, policies and procedures, closed doors and locked gates – it’s all second nature to us.
But if you’re not accustomed to correctional facility life, you may have some questions or concerns, maybe even nervousness, about what to expect if you are planning a visit.
Being well prepared for your visit to one of our correctional facilities can help alleviate the stress and anxiety that sometimes accompanies visitation.
From what to wear to what to leave behind, here are a few tips and instructions to help you prepare for your upcoming facility visit.
Visitation List and Approval
During the inmate orientation process, inmates will mail a visitation application form to the friends and family members who want to visit.
It is the inmate’s responsibility to mail the applications. Individuals who receive the application must complete the form and mail it back to the specific CoreCivic facility to initiate the approval process. All facility visitors must be approved through a background check prior to visiting an inmate.
Once the background checks are completed, the inmate is responsible for informing friends and family members that they are approved for visitation. Please ensure that, as a visitor, you have been approved before planning your visit.
Some CoreCivic facilities require that all visitations be scheduled in advance of the visitation appointment. Or there may be special requirements if an individual is in restricted housing. You may wish to contact the facility directly if you are unsure.
An inmate can change or update their list over time. If an inmate is transferred to another correctional facility, please check with the facility before visiting to ensure all records were transferred at the time of the move.
Passing Security
Every visitor who enters our correctional facilities must pass through our security measures before proceeding to a visitation area.
Visitors will be screened through a metal detector, much like what you would experience in an airport. However, our metal detector settings are much more sensitive than typical metal detectors. When preparing for your visit, please be sure to consider any metal on your clothing, including underwear and shoes.
Visitation Dress Code
Understandably, many of our visitors do not realize that what they are wearing can impact their ability to visit with their loved one.
Every facility has a strict dress code for visitors, and each facility’s dress code may vary, sometimes depending on the specific requirements of our government partner. Please review the specific dress code requirements for the facility you are visiting prior to your visit.
A few general guidelines that apply at every facility include:
Skirts and shorts must be knee-length or longer.
Only closed-toe shoes are permitted. No sandals or flip-flops.
No revealing or low cut shirts. No tank tops or halter tops.
No see-though or extremely tight clothing.
No strapless dresses. No swimsuits.
No gang or obscene messages or designs.
No hats or hoodies on shirts
No sunglasses or excessive jewelry.
Underwear must be worn at all times, but not visible.
Everyone must clear the metal detector.
Visiting from Out of State
If you must travel a great distance to visit your loved one, you want your limited visitation time to go smoothly. To help ensure you are prepared, we’ve assembled our most important advice for a successful visit.
Inmate Visitation Checklist
Before arriving at a correctional facility, think through the following checklist to ensure that you are prepared for visitation.
___ I am on my inmate’s approved visitation list.
___ I have returned my paperwork and passed the visitation background check.
___ I have my driver’s license or government ID.
___ I have planned my visit during the facility’s visitation hours.
___ I have packed facility dress code approved clothes and shoes.
___ I will clear the metal detector.
___ I have ensured that my car, purse and pockets are clear of any inappropriate items before entering the facility grounds.
___ I have checked to see if there are special visitation requirements, such as a scheduled appointment.
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GDC - Wheeler Correctional Facility - CoreCivic is detention facility owned by private prison company to handle the intake, and housing of offenders for the Wheeler County Sheriff, the State of Georgia, Bureau of Prisons, the US Marshal Service and Immigration (ICE). This regional operation is structured to implement superior quality controls to the standards set by the jurisdiction whose inmates are being held. The correctional facility offers a full complement of high-quality services, including secure custody services, academic and vocational programming, secure transportation service, correctional health, and mental health care.
The main benefit of the contracting of prisons to private operators is that it can save money. The end goal is to house prisoners in an attempt to rehabilitate them or remove them from the streets. The corporation's end goal is to profit from anything they deal in. In order to make money as a private prison, they receive a stipend from the government.
GDC - Wheeler Correctional Facility - CoreCivic is a medium security facility located at 1100 North Broad St in Alamo, GA. Medium custody inmates live in either one or two-man units within specific pods. Medium security prisons are the standard facilities used to house most criminals. They feature cage-style housing, armed guards, and a much more regimented daily routine than a minimum or low-security prisons. These are more serious offenders which must be supervised 24/7 with controlled movements. The prison yard has strengthened perimeter fence, rows of triple razor wire on double fencing and electronic detection systems to ensure inmates stay within the confined areas within the facility.
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There are strict procedures for everything related to "sending things to an inmate" in a Medium - general facility. This includes sending money for commissary packages, sending mail like letters with photos, magazine subscriptions, buying phone time, postcards and greeting cards, and even distance learning courses (get your degree, you've got a lot of extra time). You also need to know about visitation, what are the hours and rules.
All of the information you could ever need to know is below, patiently scroll the page and get as much information about GDC - Wheeler Correctional Facility - CoreCivic that you'd ever want to know. If there is anything that you were looking for, but don't see, please email us at aid@inmateaid.com.
Here are some general guidelines for sending money to an inmate's trust account; but not specific to a particular facility, institution or jail. Inmates need money to access several privileges like weekly shopping at the commissary, making phone calls, using the email service where offered, using the electronic tablets where offered and paying their co-pay when needing the medical or dental services. Some county jails require a per-night fee for the jail’s expenses.
A commissary is a store within the jail. Commissary day is usually held once a week and can only be used if the inmate has funds in their commissary account, like a bank account within the institution. If the inmate has a job, their paycheck is deposited into this account, too.
The Commissary sells various products that the inmates may purchase if they have money on their books. Items sold are clothing, shoes, snacks and food, as well as hygienic products like soap, shampoo, and shavers. The commissary also sells products like books, magazines, televisions, radios, playing cards, headphones, MP3 players, electronic tablets, songs and educational programming. They also sell paper, envelopes, and stamps allowing the inmate to write their loved ones, friends and family. Facilities will provide stamps and paper to inmates who are indigent – eligible where no money has been in their commissary account for at least 30 days.
Sending money to an inmate varies from state to state, depending if it is county, state or federal, their ways of accepting money for inmates’ changes by the money transfer company they’ve contracted with. Federal Prisons and some state-level prisons have centralized banking systems which means that you do not need to know where they are specifically, just that they are in the state systems of for instance the California, Texas, Florida DOC or the FBOP to name a few.
How do I send money using MoneyGram?
Some facilities will allow you to deposit cash through the lobby window stand-alone kiosk in the lobby or visitation room. Most facilities will also accept a postal money order mailed to the institution’s inmate mailing address made payable to the full inmate’s name.
Electronic banking allows friends and family members to send the funds online, and correctional departments are starting to favor this method because it is less work for staff and more accurate/easier to keep track of, as well as being more convenient.
Regardless of the method of sending funds, there are several key things you will need to know:
• Inmate’s full committed name
• Inmate’s ID number
• Inmate’s location – or a system like the federal BOP
Before sending any funds you should find out what online transfer companies the institution your inmate is incarcerated in uses. You can find this information on our site by navigating to the facilities page click on the Money Transfer button under the address and phone number.
Pay close attention to the rules of the facility. Sometimes they will require money senders are on the inmate's visitation list. Some correctional facilities have a deposit limit, like $200-300 at a time, but in federal, there is no limit.
MoneyGram, JPay, OffenderConnect, AccessCorrections, JailATM, WU, Touchpayonline, tigercommissary, smartdeposit are some of the money transfer firms being used by various facilities. MoneyGram is by far the oldest and most trusted.
An inmate with fines or restitution will be subject to commissary/trust account garnishment. If the inmate has these financial obligations, they will be extracted from the inmate’s bank account. It may be a percentage or the entire amount depending on the situation. We recommend inmates who are going into their bid contact the counselor and make an arrangement beforehand. If you go in knowing they are taking 20-25% of all deposits is better than have them take it all and you find out in the commissary line when the account is zero.
This is generally a signal that the inmate is doing something they shouldn’t and need money to get them out of or through a situation. It could be gambling, it could be extortion it could be other things you don’t need to know on this forum (for now). Set boundaries with your inmate. Tell them that “this is the amount I can send each month” and that is it. There are no extras beyond the boundary. Also, NEVER send money to the account of another inmate on your inmate’s instruction. This is a sign that something is not right. If the corrections people discover this, and they do more times than not, it will result in some severe disciplinary action to the inmate, and certainly the loss of all privileges.
We recommend speaking with the counselor or case manager of the facility and use a generic reference in the event that your suspicions are wrong. You needn’t put them in a more difficult position if they are.
Show your loved one how much you care – order a package today! The facilities usually have a weekly limit of about $100 per inmate, plus processing and tax. The orders do NOT count towards the inmates weekly commissary allowances Deposits can be made online for inmates 24/7 using a credit/debit card
There are also a few services that allow you how to order inmate commissary online. These trusted providers are approved and share revenue with the prisons from the sales to the inmates.
Here is a list of other similar programs prison commissary: Keefe Group, Access Securpak, iCareGifts, Union Supply Direct, Walkenhorst's, CareACell
Prison commissary (also sometimes referred to as inmate canteen) is a store for inmates housed within a correctional facility. While the very most basics may be provided for by a given correctional department, there are also other important goods/services that Florida prisoners and inmates must buy. For instance, supplies such as supplementary food, female hygiene products, books, writing utensils and a plethora of other things are examples of things that can be purchased as part of an inmate commissary packages for goods.
When you add money to an inmate account, the prison funds are stored on an inmate trust fund. This prison account basically acts as a personal bank account of an inmate. They will use this account to make Inmate Calls, pay for postage to Send Photos from Inmates, send emails from inmates, purchase Items from Commissary, receive wages from jobs, and more.
Incoming and outgoing inmate mail is subject to inspection for the presence of contraband that might threaten the safety, security or well-being of the jail/facility, its staff, and residents. Inmates may receive only metered, unstamped, plain white postcards no larger than 4" x 6" as mail. Writing must be in pencil or blue or black ink. Any other mail will be returned to the sender. If no return address is available, unauthorized mail will be stored in the inmate's locker until the inmate's release.
Inmate mail cannot contain any of the following: Create an immediate threat to jail order by describing the manufacture of weapons, bombs, incendiary devices, or tools for escape that realistically are a danger to jail security; Advocate violence, racial supremacy or ethnic purity; No current inmate-to-inmate mail will be allowed and will be destroyed.
The easiest workaround is to look over the mailing services of InmateAid. We have an automated system for sending your loved one that special message or picture. We send thousands of pieces of mail per month with NO issues with the prisons or jails. The envelopes display the InmateAid logo, the mail room knows for certain that the contents will not be compromising. This trust was established in 2012.
Greeting cards are great for the holidays and birthdays. The ones from the store often have more than just the message because the policies surrounding appropriate content (no nudity or sexually suggestive material no matter how funny), and they cannot have glitter, stickers or anything else that makes the card different from a normal plain old card. Instead of going to the Hallmark store in the mall and looking around for hours - go to our easy to search Greeting Cards service.
It takes literally 45 seconds and it's very affordable for what you're getting (and what they are getting, too!). Select from 100s of birthday, anniversary and every holiday you can think of, and VERY easy to send from your phone on InmateAid:
Don't forget Christmas, Thanksgiving, Mother's Day, Father's Day, New Year's, Ramadan, Hanukkah, Passover, Easter, Kwanzaa or Valentine's Day!
In less than a minute and only $0.99, this act of kindness will be worth a million to your inmate. If you have a picture or two and don't want to write a long letter. Type out a little love in the message box and send your latest selfie... only 99 cents!
Don't wait until the moment has passed, it's easy and convenient to let them know you're thinking of them at every moment.
Send the best magazines and books to your Inmate in jail or prison, it's the gift that keeps on giving all year round, There is nothing more exciting to an inmate (besides their release date) than getting their favorite magazine every month at mail call.
Magazines and books must come directly from the publisher. You are not allowed to send single magazines in an envelope. They need to come directly from the publisher with your inmate's name affixed to the address label. Magazine subscriptions are easy to set up, it takes literally 2 minutes.
You know when you go into the grocery and browse the new magazines on display? You see hundreds. Inside they place a little card that if you fill it out and send it in with your inmate's name, ID number and facility address - you drop it in the mail and in 8-12 weeks your inmate gets an issue every month for a whole year. Thankfully, there is an easier way, just CLICK here and browse yourself. Select a title or two and add your inmate's name to the order. It's fast, it's reliable and it's at a discounted rate for your convenience.
The prison phone companies have a monopoly at the facility they have a contract with. Profits are shared so there is no incentive for their representatives to show you how to save money. They post their rates and in almost every case, there are at least two pricing tiers. Depending on where you are and where your inmate is, the type of phone number you use will make all the difference.
In federal prison, the answer is simply that a new local number will change your inmate's call rate from $.21 per minute to only $.06 per minute. Fed gives you only 300 minutes per month, the local line service is only $8.95, no hidden fees or bundling of other unwanted service charges
For the other facilities that are not federal, it used to be that a local number was the answer. Now, its market intelligence and InmateAid has made it their business to know what the best deal is in every scenario. And we can tell you that in 30% of the cases, we cannot save you a penny - and neither can anyone else. But we will give you a refund if we can't save you money.
For more specific information on inmate calls, you will want to navigate to the facility your inmate is incarcerated in through our site by going to Prison Directory and following the links to the Discount Telephone Service - get an honest estimate before you buy.
