Quarterly packages for inmates

SarahE · #1 08-27-2005, 11:31 AM

I'm new to this site. So forgive me if this is an old discussion.

My father is in the High Desert State Prison in Susanville, CA. I only get up to see him about once a year. We just went last month, and I saw a sign that said they weren't using the company (I forgot the name) to do packages anymore. My grandma typically sends them, so I haven't had to worry about it. But I'm curious. Does this mean it has gone back to loved ones purchasing all the stuff and sending off the boxes themselves? Which, by the way, is a much better system!

Also, does anyone know what things are allowing to be sent outside of teh quarterly packages? For example, I know we can send books if the are mailed directly from the book store. But is there anything else we can send? And what about magazine subscriptions? I've been afraid to do that since they get moved around so much. Would the prison forward it to him if he's sent to a new block? Or would I have to notify the magazine every time?

Any info is appreciated.

denverswife · #2 08-28-2005, 05:51 PM

You still have to use a package company, but each facility has specific ones they accept at the moment.
Magazine subscriptions are fine, they will forward them in the same facility, but it's still up to you, or him to notify the mag of a change of address.

kg4ujg · #3 08-29-2005, 01:31 AM

I used Union Express to send a package to my friend in HDSP. The website is www.californiainmatepackage.com. I don't know how good they are yet because it's the first time I've used them but I'll keep you informed.

NIKKIWHIT70 · #4 08-29-2005, 10:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kg4ujg

I used Union Express to send a package to my friend in HDSP. The website is www.californiainmatepackage.com. I don't know how good they are yet because it's the first time I've used them but I'll keep you informed.

I just used this comapny for the first time! They were very quick! Not too many subsitutions. I was very pleased.
Nikki

kg4ujg · #5 08-29-2005, 02:23 PM

Thanks Nikki! I appreciate the feedback.

NIKKIWHIT70 · #6 08-29-2005, 02:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kg4ujg

Thanks Nikki! I appreciate the feedback.

Your welcome!

Nanoguy · #7 08-29-2005, 09:19 PM

I just used them last Thursday. They told me they had everything except 1 item that we substituted right there and they shipped it the same day. So, I did another order today (different inmate) and they had everything and it will be shipped tomorrow.

kg4ujg · #8 08-30-2005, 09:59 AM

I just found out that my order was shipped the same day I placed it, and they only had to substitute one thing....shoes.... because they didn't have a size 13. I will definitely be using them again!

bahmom · #9 09-11-2005, 07:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SarahE

I'm new to this site. So forgive me if this is an old discussion.

My father is in the High Desert State Prison in Susanville, CA. I only get up to see him about once a year. We just went last month, and I saw a sign that said they weren't using the company (I forgot the name) to do packages anymore. My grandma typically sends them, so I haven't had to worry about it. But I'm curious. Does this mean it has gone back to loved ones purchasing all the stuff and sending off the boxes themselves? Which, by the way, is a much better system!

Also, does anyone know what things are allowing to be sent outside of teh quarterly packages? For example, I know we can send books if the are mailed directly from the book store. But is there anything else we can send? And what about magazine subscriptions? I've been afraid to do that since they get moved around so much. Would the prison forward it to him if he's sent to a new block? Or would I have to notify the magazine every time?

Any info is appreciated.

I noticed you are from Covina, we live in Glendora. Please try Access Securpac online. I called the prison (that my loved one is in) and we were told this is the best place. We have sent one package and prices were very reasonable. Also have a smaller version that can also be sent another time during the quarter. I have called them and they are always very very helpful.He looked foward to another one this month but his facility is in lockdown and can't get anything. Hopefully they will be out of lockdown by the end of September. Good luck

KeviesMom · #10 09-15-2005, 11:00 AM

I have always used Access Securepak and they have been very good. If you go to accesscatalog.com you can also send a Special Package once every 30 days (unless CDCR has changed the rules). I was able to send my son a CD/AM/FM radio, a television, fan and hot pot. The Special Package items are pretty limited so once you have sent one package, you have probably sent everything possible to send.

~~Charme

NIKKIWHIT70 · #11 09-15-2005, 11:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by KeviesMom

I have always used Access Securepak and they have been very good. If you go to accesscatalog.com you can also send a Special Package once every 30 days (unless CDCR has changed the rules). I was able to send my son a CD/AM/FM radio, a television, fan and hot pot. The Special Package items are pretty limited so once you have sent one package, you have probably sent everything possible to send.

~~Charme

At CSATF Radio's/TV's have to be approved. You cannot just order them. You may want to check with the facility before you order.....

cryinblueeyes · #12 09-15-2005, 12:32 PM

I used access and I loved them, they were very fast at getting it out and he got the package within 2 weeks. I ordered a CD player from Walkenhorsts and it took them almost a month!

Joses_Princess · #13 10-12-2005, 04:08 AM

acess is a good one i hear

proudmommy2243 · #14 07-21-2006, 03:37 AM

i am getting ready to send my husband his first package. my mom told me that she used to make her own package and mail it herself to a friend that was in prison like 15 years ago. i was wondering if you can still make your own packages and send them yourself, or if you have to use one of the vendors online to send a package? also, my husband is in california medical facility, in vacaville, ca , if that helps any......thank you

**Ry*sgrl** · #15 07-21-2006, 01:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by proudmommy2243

i am getting ready to send my husband his first package. my mom told me that she used to make her own package and mail it herself to a friend that was in prison like 15 years ago. i was wondering if you can still make your own packages and send them yourself, or if you have to use one of the vendors online to send a package? also, my husband is in california medical facility, in vacaville, ca , if that helps any......thank you

We can't make our own anymore....we have to go through an approved vendor!!! I wish we could still make our own!!!