Exploring SCI Coal Township: A Medium Security Prison in Pennsylvania
In the heart of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, lies the Coal Township State Correctional Institution (SCI Coal Township), a medium security prison that plays a significant role in the state’s correctional system. This facility, spanning 43 fenced-in acres, serves as the temporary home to approximately 2,333 adult male inmates and is staffed by over 525 dedicated individuals. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the details of SCI Coal Township, its facilities, programs, and its commitment to community involvement.
Understanding the Facility
Housing Units
SCI Coal Township comprises ten housing units, each serving a specific purpose within the correctional system. These units play a crucial role in the daily lives of the inmates and the overall functioning of the institution. The inmates are housed in multi-occupancy cells and dormitories, which vary in terms of security and purpose.
Community Work Program
One notable aspect of SCI Coal Township is its commitment to community engagement. Select inmates have the opportunity to participate in the community work program. This initiative allows offenders to give back to society by contributing their labor to various projects. Inmates may find themselves involved in activities such as painting churches and government buildings, packing boxes for the Salvation Army, maintaining cemeteries and veterans memorial sites, and even cleaning up litter on local roads and highways. This not only benefits the community but also provides inmates with a sense of purpose and responsibility.
Educational Opportunities
Adult Basic Education
For inmates who do not possess a high school diploma, SCI Coal Township encourages them to take adult basic education courses. These courses offer a chance to improve literacy skills and work towards earning a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. Education is a powerful tool for rehabilitation, and these programs help inmates prepare for a brighter future beyond incarceration.
Vocational Programs
The institution also offers vocational programs that equip inmates with valuable skills. These programs cover a range of trades, including construction, barbering, upholstery, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), and computer-aided drafting (CAD). By providing these opportunities, SCI Coal Township aims to enhance the employability of its inmates upon their release.
Sex Offender Treatment
In cases where inmates are classified as sex offenders, SCI Coal Township may require them to participate in sex offender treatment programs. These programs are designed to address the underlying issues that lead to sexual offenses and promote rehabilitation.
Re-entry Programs
Preparing inmates for their eventual release is a priority at SCI Coal Township. The institution offers various re-entry programs aimed at equipping inmates with the skills and knowledge needed to reintegrate into society successfully. These programs focus on areas such as job readiness, life skills, and personal development.
Visitation and Contact Information
Visiting Hours
Family and friends play a crucial role in an inmate’s journey towards rehabilitation. SCI Coal Township facilitates visitation on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm. These visits provide inmates with much-needed support and connection to the outside world.
Physical Address
For those planning to visit or correspond with inmates, the physical address of SCI Coal Township is as follows:
Coal Township State Correctional Institution 1 Kelley Drive Coal Township, PA 17866-1020
Contact Information
For inquiries or communication, you can reach SCI Coal Township at the following telephone number:
Telephone: (570)-644-7890
Inmate Mailing Address
When sending mail to inmates, ensure to include the inmate’s name and ID number, along with the correct mailing address:
Inmate Name, ID Number SCI Coal Township 1 Kelley Drive Coal Township, PA 17866-1020
Conclusion
Coal Township State Correctional Institution serves as a vital component of Pennsylvania’s correctional system, not only in housing inmates but also in offering rehabilitation programs and fostering community engagement. Through education, vocational training, and re-entry programs, SCI Coal Township strives to prepare its inmates for a successful reintegration into society.
By supporting inmates in their journey towards rehabilitation and providing them with opportunities to give back to the community, SCI Coal Township plays a significant role in the broader effort to reduce recidivism and create a safer, more inclusive society.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can family and friends visit inmates at SCI Coal Township on weekends?
- Yes, visitation is allowed on weekends, including Saturdays and Sundays, from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm.
- What vocational programs are available to inmates at SCI Coal Township?
- Inmates can participate in various vocational programs, including construction trades, barbering, upholstery, HVAC, and computer-aided drafting (CAD).
- How can inmates at SCI Coal Township receive mail from loved ones?
- Inmates can receive mail at the provided inmate mailing address. Make sure to include the inmate’s name and ID number on the envelope.
- Are there educational opportunities for inmates without a high school diploma at SCI Coal Township?
- Yes, inmates without a high school diploma are encouraged to take adult basic education courses and work towards earning a GED.
- What is the goal of the community work program at SCI Coal Township?
- The community work program allows inmates to contribute their labor to community projects, fostering a sense of responsibility and community engagement among offenders.
