Question 1

What types of games and entertainment can I send to an inmate?

Accepted Answer

InmateLink's entertainment services allow you to send various approved recreational items including board games, card games, puzzle books, crossword collections, and educational games. All items must meet facility security requirements and be from approved vendors. Our entertainment catalog includes chess sets, checkers, word games, and brain teasers that help inmates stay mentally active.

Question 2

How do I get started with sending entertainment items to my loved one?

Accepted Answer

Getting started with InmateLink's entertainment services is simple. First, search for your loved one using our inmate search tool to confirm their facility and eligibility. Then browse our approved entertainment catalog, select items that meet facility guidelines, and place your order. We handle all the security screening and delivery logistics.

Question 3

Are there restrictions on what entertainment items I can send?

Accepted Answer

Yes, each correctional facility has specific guidelines for entertainment items. Generally, items must be new, from approved vendors, and meet security requirements. Electronic devices, items with removable parts, or anything that could pose security risks are typically prohibited. InmateLink ensures all items in our catalog are pre-approved for most facilities.

Question 4

What board games and card games are typically allowed?

Accepted Answer

Popular approved games include chess, checkers, backgammon, Scrabble, Monopoly (plastic pieces only), playing cards, and UNO. Games must typically be made of approved materials (no metal pieces), have no removable small parts, and come directly from authorized vendors. Strategy games and educational games are often encouraged as they promote mental stimulation.

Question 5

Can I send puzzle books, crosswords, or brain teasers?

Accepted Answer

Puzzle books, crossword collections, sudoku books, and brain teasers are excellent entertainment options that most facilities welcome. These items promote mental activity and help pass time constructively. Look for books with soft covers and ensure they're new when sending. Word search books and logic puzzles are also popular choices.

Question 6

Are electronic games or devices allowed?

Accepted Answer

Electronic devices are generally not permitted in most correctional facilities due to security concerns. However, some facilities may allow specific approved electronic items like basic radios or educational tablets through their commissary system. Check with the specific facility or use InmateLink's facility-specific guidelines to understand what's permitted.

Question 7

What about sports-related entertainment or fitness items?

Accepted Answer

Sports entertainment typically includes sports magazines, rule books, and strategy guides rather than physical equipment. Some facilities allow soft sports balls or exercise guides. Physical fitness items are usually provided by the facility or available through their commissary. Focus on sports-related reading materials and game strategy books.

Question 8

How long does it take for entertainment items to reach an inmate?

Accepted Answer

Entertainment items typically take 5-10 business days to reach an inmate after processing. This includes time for security screening at the facility. During busy periods or holidays, delivery may take longer. InmateLink provides tracking information so you can monitor your shipment's progress and know when your loved one should expect their entertainment items.

Question 9

Will my loved one be notified when entertainment items arrive?

Accepted Answer

Yes, inmates are typically notified by facility staff when packages arrive and pass security screening. The notification process varies by facility - some use written notices while others announce during mail call. Your loved one will need to follow facility procedures to collect their entertainment items from the mailroom or property office.

Question 10

How do I know what entertainment items are allowed at a specific facility?

Accepted Answer

Each facility has unique rules for entertainment items. InmateLink provides facility-specific guidelines in our entertainment catalog, showing which items are approved for each location. You can also contact the facility directly or check their official website. Our customer service team can help verify if specific items are allowed at your loved one's facility.

Question 11

What happens if an entertainment item is rejected by the facility?

Accepted Answer

If an entertainment item doesn't meet facility guidelines, it will typically be returned to the sender or held in the inmate's property until release. Some facilities may allow you to pick up rejected items. InmateLink works to prevent rejections by only offering pre-approved items, but facility rules can change. We'll notify you if any issues arise with your shipment.

Question 12

How do games and entertainment help inmates during incarceration?

Accepted Answer

Entertainment items provide crucial mental stimulation, stress relief, and positive ways to spend time during incarceration. Games promote cognitive function, social interaction with other inmates, and can help maintain emotional well-being. Educational games and puzzles support learning and skill development, while recreational activities provide healthy outlets for energy and creativity.

Question 13

Can entertainment items help with rehabilitation and reentry preparation?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many entertainment items support rehabilitation goals. Educational games build problem-solving skills, strategy games develop critical thinking, and social games can improve communication abilities. These skills are valuable for successful reentry. Some facilities incorporate recreational activities into their rehabilitation programs, making entertainment items part of a comprehensive support system.

Question 14

How much do entertainment items typically cost?

Accepted Answer

Entertainment item costs vary widely depending on the type and complexity. Simple card games might cost $5-15, while board games range from $15-50. Puzzle books typically cost $3-10 each. InmateLink strives to offer competitive pricing and often provides bundle deals. Shipping and handling fees may apply, but we work to keep total costs reasonable for families.

Question 15

Can I set up recurring deliveries of entertainment items?

Accepted Answer

While most entertainment items are one-time purchases, you can set up recurring deliveries for consumable items like puzzle books or magazines. This ensures your loved one regularly receives new mental stimulation. InmateLink can help you create a schedule that provides variety while staying within your budget and facility guidelines.

Question 16

Are there entertainment options for inmates with special needs or disabilities?

Accepted Answer

Yes, InmateLink offers entertainment options suitable for various needs including large-print puzzle books, audio materials where permitted, and games designed for different ability levels. We work with facilities to ensure inmates with disabilities have access to appropriate recreational activities. Contact our support team to discuss specific accommodation needs.

Question 17

Can I send entertainment items for special occasions or holidays?

Accepted Answer

Entertainment items make excellent gifts for birthdays, holidays, or other special occasions. Plan ahead for holiday deliveries as processing times may be longer during busy periods. Consider themed items like holiday puzzle books or games that multiple inmates can enjoy together. InmateLink can help you time deliveries to arrive for special dates.

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Games & Entertainment FAQ

Entertainment & Recreation Services - Supporting Well-being Through Games & Activities

Getting Started

What types of games and entertainment can I send to an inmate?

How do I get started with sending entertainment items to my loved one?

Are there restrictions on what entertainment items I can send?

Entertainment Categories

What board games and card games are typically allowed?

Can I send puzzle books, crosswords, or brain teasers?

Are electronic games or devices allowed?

What about sports-related entertainment or fitness items?

Delivery & Timing

How long does it take for entertainment items to reach an inmate?

Will my loved one be notified when entertainment items arrive?

Facility Rules & Guidelines

How do I know what entertainment items are allowed at a specific facility?

What happens if an entertainment item is rejected by the facility?

Benefits & Well-being

How do games and entertainment help inmates during incarceration?

Can entertainment items help with rehabilitation and reentry preparation?

Costs & Ordering

How much do entertainment items typically cost?

Can I set up recurring deliveries of entertainment items?

Special Considerations

Are there entertainment options for inmates with special needs or disabilities?

Can I send entertainment items for special occasions or holidays?

Ready to Send Entertainment?

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