Hi All,

I am new to the forum, but am hoping some of you could lend a hand...

I will be serving approx. two and a half years in Danbury, at the Camp. I report on August 15. I'd like to hear about any information specific to Danbury itself...I've researched the system and spoken to lots of ex-offenders about the federal prison system, but would be interested to hear anything anyone's heard about Danbury itself.

Also, for anyone who has been through the fed system: my family's concerned about being able to send funds in to me. we figured on about 60 per month for the phone calls...my question is, what do other things that you need (toiletries, paper, whatever else) cost in there? I figured on sending a few hundred initially for sneakers, a radio, etc., but then, how much do you need to get by each month? (I don't smoke so would not be buying cigs).

Thanks in advance for any help, it is much appreciated,

T

If you would like I am familar with FPC Alderson, and the camps are somewhat similar. PM me with any questions and I will try to answer them for you.

You won't make much money at all when you work in prison. Figure on $18-$25 a month. The Commissary is fairly expensive and you have a limit on the amount you can buy each month. You have to buy virtually everything you need. The place itself is small and cramped. There is not much to do in there as there is no gym (there is a small weight room). If you make alot of phone calls and you need the things you state you do then $60 a month is not enough. At Orientation the staff will tell you how your family can send you in money (sent to Georgia address). A suggestion: always keep in mind where you are. People think that since it's a "Camp" they are not in prison. That is not so. Be aware of the people around you and take it with a grain of salt what is said to you. People tend to not be who or what they say. Good luck and don't sweat it.

Thanks for your response. I was actually thinking 60 for phone calls alone, and then another 75 or so for everything else...(and I don't smoke, so no cigarettes). Does that make sense? I hate being such a burden on my family.

Depends on your needs. Remember, you have to buy everything you need. Shampoo, toothpaste, womens needs, stamps, envelopes and, if you don't like the food, the crap the Commissary sells. After a month or two you will know what you will need. Have your family send in a little more at first to get you started. You will do just fine. Buy a walkman and enjoy the track. It has a wonderful view. The property is beautiful. Suggestion on visits, bring change or dollar bills. Nothing is allowed to come in. Make sure you send out you visiting forms and even send them to people who just might come this way. Have your visitors bring their drivers license. If they are not on your visiting list, no visit. They can't bring anything in the visiting room. Buy photo tickets if you want to take pictures prior to your visit. I assume you are self surrendering. You won't be able to bring anything into the Camp. Only a wedding band. No watches, nothing is allowed. It is not a frightening place at all. In three weeks you will have everything down pat if not sooner. Hope you don't expect any privacy!